Logical Labyrinths

by Raymond M. Smullyan

This book features a unique approach to the teaching of mathematical logic by putting it in the context of the puzzles and paradoxes of common language and rational thought. It serves as a bridge from the author’s puzzle books to his technical writing in the fascinating field of mathematical logic. Using the logic of lying and truth-telling, the author introduces the readers to informal reasoning preparing them for the formal study of symbolic logic, from propositional logic to first-order logic, a subject that has many important applications to philosophy, mathematics, and computer science. The book includes a journey through the amazing labyrinths of infinity, which have stirred the imagination of mankind as much, if not more, than any other subject.

Genres: Mathematics, Logic, Philosophy, Science, Puzzles, Nonfiction, Textbooks

336 pages, Hardcover

First published December 22, 2008

About the author

Raymond M. Smullyan was a logician, musician, Zen master, puzzle master, and writer.

Reviews

[Jared Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm very suspicious of the other reviews. The numbering of solutions is wrong in some of the chapters, which can be a source of considerable (if not temporary) confusion. It's really the publishers fault; at nearly $60, can't Taylor & Francis afford to have quality graduate students check the printers' proof?

In any case, I suspect at least some Goodreads reviewers haven't done all the exercises 🤓

EDIT

I should really give this four stars, since, and despite the publications regrettable typos, a teacher as pleasant as Smullyan really is something special. Even readers well-studied in logic and/or mathematics should get a thrill from how wonderfully (and slyly) Smullyan sets the stage for Skolem-Lowenheim and other gems.

[Swarner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raymond Smullyan is my Logician Dumbledore. I own and read every book of his I can get my hands on. Which is well over a dozen.