David Hilbert and the Axiomatization of Physics (1898–1918)

• 1: Late Nineteenth Century Background.- 2: Axiomatization in Hilbert’s Early Career.- 3: The Axiomatic Method in Action: 1900-1905.- 4: Minkowski and Relativity: 1907–1909.- 5: From Mechanical to Electromagnetic Reductionism: 1910–1914.- 6: Einstein and Mie: Two Pillars of Hilbert’s Unified Theory.- 7: Foundations of Physics: 1915–1916.- 8: Hilbert and GTR: 1916–1918.- 9: Epilogue.- Appendix 1: General Chronology of Events Mentioned in the Text.- Appendix 2: Hilbert’s Göttingen Courses on Physics.- Appendix 3: Seminars, Miscellaneous Lectures.- 3.A. Advanced Seminars Taught by Hilbert.- 3.B. Public Lectures by Hilbert.- 3.C. Physical lectures at the GMG and GWG by Hilbert.- 3.D. Lectures on Physical Issues at the GMG by Others.- Appendix 4: Hilbert’s Physics Assistants and Doctoral Students.- 4.A. Assistants for Physics.- 4.B. Doctoral Students on Physical Topics.- Apendix 5: Letters Quoted in the Book.- Appendix 6: Items from the Hilbert Nachlass referred to in the Book.- Appendix 7: Hilbert’s Axioms for Radiation Theory.- References.- Commonly Used Abbreviations.- Published and Unpublished Sources.

From the reviews: "This is a massive scholarly book on the work of David Hilbert on physics. In more than 400 pages the author provides us with an in-depth analysis of the fundamental contributions of this mathematician-born scientist to many branches of physics ... . the historical reconstruction, which was the main aim of the author is ... done with extreme competence and care, and it is, I think, of the highest quality." (Daniele Oriti, Mathematical Reviews, Issue 2006 i) "The main message of the book is that physics played in Hilbert's research ... a much larger role than is commonly recognized. ... It is written in a lively but at the same time in a very careful academic style. ... Throughout the book the reader is confronted with many interesting ... facts. ... Leo Corry's book is a significant contribution to Hilbert studies and will be a major reference source ... . I enjoyed reading the book and can recommend it to everyone." (Lev Beklemishev, Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics, Vol. 37, 2006)