How We Understand Hilbert’s Thought of Infinity

Abstract

We know that Hilbert’s thought of infinity has profoundly influenced and changed the mathematical development of the 20th century, and yet there is inherent contradiction in his thought of infinity itself, building his understanding of infinity on Kant’s intuition and the principle of finalism. This paper analyzes his thought of infinity based on Hegel’s view of dialectical infinity, and points out the incompleteness of his understanding of infinity.