Leibniz: Dissertation on Combinatorial Art
Martin Wilson translator Han van Ruler editor Massimo Mugnai editor
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Oxford University Press
Published:28th May '20
Should be back in stock very soon
Leibniz published the Dissertation on Combinatorial Art in 1666. This book contains the seeds of Leibniz's mature thought, as well as many of the mathematical ideas that he would go on to further develop after the invention of the calculus. It is in the Dissertation, for instance, that we find the project for the construction of a logical calculus clearly expressed for the first time. The idea of encoding terms and propositions by means of numbers, later developed by Kurt Gödel, also appears in this work. In this text, furthermore, Leibniz conceives the possibility of constituting a universal language or universal characteristic, a project that he would pursue for the rest of his life. Mugnai, van Ruler, and Wilson present the first full English translation of the Dissertation, complete with a critical introduction and a comprehensive commentary.
the DAC is widely recognized as the most original and most important early work by Leibniz, containing the seeds of his mature philosophy and, in particular, of his logic. Mugnai, van Ruler, and Wilson have devoted many years to this daunting task: the result is a volume of outstanding quality and exceptional importance. In brief, this is a major contribution to the history of philosophy in general and the history of logic in particular - one which will have a long shelf life. Any serious research library should have a copy on its shelves. * Maria Rosa Antognazza, History and Philosophy of Logic *
an impressive and fluent translation of Leibniz's early work Dissertatio de arte combinatoria . . . not only a great addition to the scholarship repertoire of Leibniz scholars, but also provides new avenues for historians of philosophy, theology, logic, mathematics, and computing. Given the difficult nature of the subject and the imperfections in Leibniz's work, the editors have provided invaluable aids in the volume itself. * Tzuchien Tho, Centaurus *
In sum, the authors are to be highly commended for producing a very readable and hugely informative English translation, and equipping the reader with such expert guidance to negotiate this wonderful text. * Richard T. W. Arthur, The Leibniz Review *
This translation is thus a major event for Leibniz studies and will hopefully stimulate new research on the early Leibniz ... In addition to Leibniz scholars, the Dissertation should find an audience in students of the histories of mathematics and logic. * Christopher P. Noble, Metascience *
For the benefit of non-Latin-speaking readers, this edition is an invaluable addition to the works of Leibniz translated into English. * Athanase Papadopoulos, Mathematical Reviews Clippings *
ISBN: 9780198837954
Dimensions: 223mm x 147mm x 27mm
Weight: 352g
320 pages