Positives This book explores the fascinating intersection of mathematics and religious mysticism, particularly focusing on the development of set theory by Russian mathematicians in the early 20th century. Reviewers praise the book for its engaging biographical sketches of these mathematicians, offering a humanizing look at their lives, personal rivalries, and struggles amidst the turbulent socio-political and religious landscape of the era. The narrative is lauded for presenting the intellectual drama surrounding set theory and the cultural context that fostered the Moscow School of Mathematics. Readers appreciated how the book highlights the role of mysticism and self-reflection as potential enablers of mathematical creativity, providing a unique perspective on the philosophy and personal side of scientific discovery.
Negatives However, several critics point out significant shortcomings in the book's execution. A major criticism is that the connections between Russian mysticism, specifically "Name Worshipping," and mathematical breakthroughs are often tenuous, declared rather than thoroughly explained or substantiated with strong evidence like diary entries or letters. Reviewers found the mathematical explanations to be light, potentially disappointing readers seeking deeper insights into set theory. The book's organization and writing style also drew fire, described as "a shambles," "numbing," and "uneven," with excessive detail and a rotating narrative that makes it difficult to follow the various figures and their relationships. Some felt the authors' own philosophical leanings biased their interpretation, leading to misrepresentations of theological concepts and a "badly hidden agenda."
Conclusion In conclusion, "Naming Infinity" is a polarizing book. While it offers a captivating historical account of a unique period in mathematics and the compelling personal stories of the individuals involved, its central argument about the direct influence of mysticism on mathematical creativity is often weakly supported and its narrative structure can be challenging. This book would appeal most to readers interested in the human element of scientific history, the cultural context of early 20th-century Russia, and the broader philosophical questions at the intersection of religion and science, rather than those seeking a deep dive into mathematical theory or a rigorously proven link between specific mystical beliefs and mathematical innovation.
