Algebraic Geometry Seminar

An Abstract Approach to Ramsey Theory

Speaker: Slawomir Solecki, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Location: Warren Weaver Hall 201

Date: Tuesday, April 15, 2014, 3:30 p.m.

Synopsis:

I will present an abstract approach to finite Ramsey theory. I will formulate within this approach a pigeonhole principle and a Ramsey condition, and state a theorem that the pigeonhole principle implies the Ramsey condition. I will indicate how many concrete Ramsey results become special instances, or iterative instances, of this general theorem. I will start with explaining the context, coming from connections with topological dynamics, of recent renewed interest in Ramsey theory.