Reflections on Kurt Gödel

Rating:
Summary: Since no one else has reviewed this I will.
Review: I understand that Wang has been an important source in compiling information on Godel and bringing it to public attention over the years, but this is the first book of his I've read. This volume contains a variety of material about Godel- biographical facts, personal recollections, chronologies, Godel's philosophical ideas, the impact and historical setting of his mathematical work, his relationship with Einstein, comparisons to other prominent intellectuals, and more. It assumes a basic understanding of Godel's theorems. The major portion of the book is Wang's attempted presentation and examination of Godel's (largely unpublished) philosophical activity. Much of this is about Wang's own philosophy as he attempts to clarify both their positions by articulating points of agreement and disagreement. Some of these sections require more background in philosophy than most students of mathematics possess (myself included).

Wang supplies lots of interesting historical and biographical material as well. The 75 page chronology of Godel's life and work is very informative. Contains 11 photographs of Godel and company. The book ends with some useful commentary on selected publications of Godel. If you're looking just for a biography get Dawson's excellent book, but anyone seriously interested in Godel will want this as well.