Beyond the Infinite: Exploring Set Theory and the Continuum Hypothesis - Rothschild Lecture

Explore the fascinating world of infinity in this Rothschild Lecture delivered by Professor Hugh Woodin from Harvard University. Delve into the historical development of Set Theory, from Cantor's groundbreaking work in the late 19th century to the establishment of ZFC axioms. Discover how Cohen's unexpected 1963 revelation about the Continuum Hypothesis challenged the foundations of Set Theory. Examine the subsequent 50-year evolution of Cohen's method and its widespread impact on unsolvable problems in the field. Investigate the fundamental dilemma between the rich hierarchy of infinity axioms and the limitations imposed by Cohen's method. Gain insights into recent discoveries that suggest a potential resolution to this longstanding mathematical conundrum. Expand your understanding of transfinite mathematics and the philosophical implications of infinity in this thought-provoking lecture from the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences.