I do not want to presuppose anything as known. I see in my explanation in section 1 the definition of the concepts point, straight line and plane, if one adds to these all the axioms of groups i-v as characteristics. If one is looking for other definitions of point, perhaps by means of paraphrase in terms of extensionless, etc., then, of course, I would most decidedly have to oppose such an enterprise. One is then looking for something that can never be found, for there is nothing there, and everything gets lost, becomes confused and vague, and degenerates into a game of hide and seek.
More Quotes from David Hilbert:
A mathematical theory is not to be considered complete until you have made it so clear that you can explain it to the first man whom you meet on the street.David Hilbert
I have tried to avoid long numerical computations, thereby following Riemann's postulate that proofs should be given through ideas and not voluminous computations.
David Hilbert
The infinite! No other question has ever moved so profoundly the spirit of man.
David Hilbert
Physics is much too hard for physicists.
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If I were to awaken after having slept for a thousand years, my first question would be: Has the Riemann hypothesis been proven?
David Hilbert
The further a mathematical theory is developed, the more harmoniously and uniformly does its construction proceed, and unsuspected relations are disclosed between hitherto separated branches of the science.
David Hilbert
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Based on Topics: Definition QuotesBased on Keywords: axioms, decidedly, degenerates, paraphrase, presuppose
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