Questions About Gödel, Escher, Bach: An Eternal Golden Braid

Reader Q&A

To ask other readers questions about Gödel, Escher, Bach, please sign up.

Answered Questions (8)

Can someone please explain the difference between an axiom and a theorem according to Hofstadter? I need to hear it explained in another way.

Roger Merritt An axiom is something that is just assumed to be true. It is not based on logic or reasoning. It is said to be self-evident. The truth of it is suppos…moreAn axiom is something that is just assumed to be true. It is not based on logic or reasoning. It is said to be self-evident. The truth of it is supposed to be so obvious that it need not be proven. Indeed, it cannot be proven.

A theorem is an assertion of fact. It usually is not obvious. Its truth can only be proven by arguing according to a set of rules called "logic." Its truth depends on the truth of the premises, so if you can start with axioms and follow the rules and reach the assertion, then the theorem is considered "proven," and "true," and can be used as the basis for further argument to prove other theorems.(less)

flag

It looks initially like a scarily difficult read. Is it hard going?

Brian I think it's fun. I come from programming and music theory so the way he discusses ideas is not unfamiliar. It depends on how you consume heavily abst…moreI think it's fun. I come from programming and music theory so the way he discusses ideas is not unfamiliar. It depends on how you consume heavily abstract writing. There are almost certainly parts you'll have to reread several times, but it's not dissimilar from any other logic-dense academic writing. (less)

flag

Can someone please explain the difference between an a Formula and an Algorithms, I am confused because sometime we use formula to solve and algorithms and come vice-versa?

Christoffer A formula is a mathematical expression representing a relationship, while an algorithm is a set of instructions or steps to perform a specific task or…moreA formula is a mathematical expression representing a relationship, while an algorithm is a set of instructions or steps to perform a specific task or solve a problem. Formulas are often used to express mathematical concepts, whereas algorithms are used for computational tasks and problem-solving.(less)

flag

Can this work as an audiobook? Or are there graphs/pictures to look at?

Scott Bordelon I don't think it would be very workable as an audiobook. There are numerous illustrations. I know there aren't any ebooks available for GEB, so I doub…moreI don't think it would be very workable as an audiobook. There are numerous illustrations. I know there aren't any ebooks available for GEB, so I doubt there are any legal audiobooks available for either, but you might find one on the Dark Web somewhere. (less)

flag

Is this a good book for a 12 year-old? I've already read I am a strange loop his other book