Some remarks on Hilbert's axiomatic method and the unity of science (Q2767844)

The author reviews Hilbert's attempts to axiomatise various theories in physics and geometry. He also quotes Hilbert's assertions about the unity of mathematics (which are rather naive, since interactions between different parts is much more evident). He associates Hilbert's stress on axiomatisation as intended to temper the interesting specialisation of mathematicians of his time; but the link is not a necessary one, and it could be argued that, like some contemporaries, Hilbert's interest in axioms was provoked by their rising status in some branches, especially the proliferating algebras and (non-)Euclidean geometries.NEWLINENEWLINEFor the entire collection see [Zbl 0976.00021].