George Boole
An English mathematician and philosopher, creator of Boolean algebra, which is fundamental to computer science.
Most quoted
"The design of the following treatise is to investigate the fundamental laws of those operations of the mind by which reasoning is performed; to give expression to them in the language of a Calculus, and upon this foundation to establish the science of Logic and construct its method; to make that method itself the basis of a general method for the application of the mathematical doctrine of Probabilities; and, finally, to collect from the various elements of truth brought to view in the course of these inquiries some probable intimations concerning the nature and constitution of the human mind."
— from An Investigation of the Laws of Thought, 1854
"The design of the following treatise is to investigate the fundamental laws of those operations of the mind by which reasoning is performed; to give expression to them in the language of a Calculus, and upon this foundation to establish the science of Logic and construct its method; to make that method itself the basis of a general method for the application of the mathematical doctrine of Probabilities; and finally, to collect from the various elements of truth brought to view in the course of these inquiries some probable intimations concerning the nature and constitution of the human mind."
— from An Investigation of the Laws of Thought, 1854
"We may in fact lay aside the logical interpretation of the symbols in the given equation; convert them into quantitative symbols, susceptible only of the values 0 and 1; perform upon them as such all the requisite processes of solution; and finally restore to them their logical interpretation."
— from An Investigation of the Laws of Thought, 1854
All quotes by George Boole (339)
The human mind is capable of understanding the principles of morality, and of acting in accordance with them.
The study of logic is the study of the laws of correct reasoning.
The human mind is capable of distinguishing between good and evil, and of choosing the good.
The laws of thought are the basis of all scientific inquiry, and of all philosophical speculation.
The human mind is capable of experiencing joy and sorrow, hope and despair.
The pursuit of beauty is a fundamental human impulse, and one that enriches our lives.
The human mind is capable of contemplating the infinite, and of striving for perfection.
The laws of thought are a testament to the order and rationality of the universe.
The human mind is capable of love and compassion, and of forming deep connections with others.
The pursuit of meaning is a universal human quest, and one that gives purpose to our lives.
The human mind is capable of courage and resilience, and of overcoming adversity.
The laws of thought are a reflection of the divine order, and of the wisdom of the Creator.
The human mind is capable of faith and hope, and of believing in something greater than itself.
The pursuit of spiritual truth is a journey of self-discovery, and of connection with the divine.
The human mind is capable of creativity and imagination, and of bringing new things into existence.
The laws of thought are a gift to humanity, enabling us to understand the world and our place in it.
The human mind is capable of learning from its mistakes, and of growing in wisdom.
The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong endeavor, and one that enriches the soul.
The human mind is capable of empathy and understanding, and of bridging the divides between people.
The laws of thought are a testament to the power of human reason, and to our ability to comprehend the universe.
Contemporaries of George Boole
Other Mathematicss born within 50 years of George Boole (1815–1864).