Peirce's Existential Graphs and String Diagrams for First-Order Logic

Abstract: The Existential Graphs are the result of C.S. Peirce's studies in the logic of relations and his concern for developing a better logical notation. In this talk I give an accessible introduction to Peirce's graphs that emphasizes the intuitions behind these notational choices and the resulting inference rules. Along the way I discuss how Peirce's work has been the inspiration for recent advances in categorical logic and show examples of how the graphs help us present and clarify some of our logical concepts.

Computer scienceMathematics

Audience: researchers in the topic

( video )

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Relatorium seminar

Series comments: The name "Relatorium" combines "relator" with the Latin root "-ium," meaning "a place for activities" (as in "auditorium" or "gymnasium"). This seminar series is a platform to relate ideas, interact with math, and connect with each other.

In this series, we explore math beyond what we usually hear in standard talks. These sessions fall somewhere between a technical talk and a podcast: moderately formal, yet conversational. The philosophy behind the series is that math is best learned by active participation rather than passive listening. Our aim is to “engage and involve,” inviting everyone to think actively with the speaker. The concepts are accessible, exploratory, and intended to spark questions and discussions.

The idea of relatability has strong ties to compassion — creating space for shared understanding and exploration - which is the spirit of this seminar! This is a pilot project, so we’re here to improvise, learn, and evolve as we go!

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