[msp-interest] [MSP101] Fredrik Nordvall Forsberg: An introduction to constructive logic (4pm Fri 10/10, LT210)

[Fredrik Nordvall Forsberg]

Hi all,

I am happy to report that tomorrow's rescheduled MSP101 seminar will go 
ahead, with an introductory talk given by yours truly. Depending on how 
well Fiona is feeling, there might also be another talk already on 
Monday, in our regular slot.

Best wishes,
Fred



Date, time and place:
   Friday 10 October, 16:00, Livingstone Tower room LT210

Speaker:
   Fredrik Nordvall Forsberg (MSP)

Title:
   An introduction to constructive logic

Abstract:
Constructive logic (also known as intuitionistic logic) is logic without 
the Law of the Excluded Middle, which states that P or ¬ P holds for 
every proposition P. Hilbert famously said that denying mathematicians 
the use of the Law of the Excluded Middle is "the same as denying the 
boxer the use of his fists". I will try to convince you that there 
sometimes is merit in not trying to punch people in the head. For 
example, constructive logic is the internal logic of toposes, and so a 
constructive proof can often be reinterpreted to show a much stronger 
result than a classical one, e.g., a constructed proof of the existence 
of a function might in fact automatically yield the existence of a 
continuous or computable function. Constructive logic often leads to 
interesting mathematics, as it allows for finer distinctions than 
classical logic. I will also discuss how and when, despite appearances, 
constructive logic can be seen as an extension of classical logic, 
rather than as a restriction.

Zoom link:
https://strath.zoom.us/j/83368306590?pwd=r8QvZDeXG8YvJAKGTBMRb7rumX2Dh7.1
   (Meeting ID 833 6830 6590, passcode whiteboard)

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