The Philosopher

Saunders Mac Lane

The face

The background

Nationality:
American
Schools:
Category theory
Branchs:
Category theory, Mathematical logic, Algebraic number theory, Algebraic topology, Field theory, Valuation theory, Group extensions, Group cohomology, Homology theory
Period:
20th century

The synopsis

Saunders Mac Lane (born Leslie Saunders MacLane, August 4, 1909 – April 14, 2005) was an American mathematician who, along with Samuel Eilenberg, co-founded category theory. Born in Norwich, Connecticut, Mac Lane's early education saw him attend Yale University, the University of Chicago, and the University of Göttingen, where he earned his PhD. His career included professorships at Harvard University and the University of Chicago. He served in significant roles within academic and scientific societies, including as President of the American Mathematical Society and a member of the National Science Board. Mac Lane's contributions extended to algebraic topology and mathematical logic, with key works including 'A Survey of Modern Algebra' and 'Categories for the Working Mathematician'. He received numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Science.

The works