Number-theoretic set theories (Q762482)

Let PN be pure number theory, i.e. first-order Peano arithmetic. By a ''number-theoretic set theory'', we mean a system of set theory which is a natural extension of PN, and where all variables range over the natural numbers. For most of the systems considered, a recursive rule of infinite induction, rule W, appears to be necessary. Because of rule W, these systems avoid Gödel constructions of undecidable sentences, yet have a good degree of formality. The systems WTN and WSN are of particular concern and are shown to be mutually interpretable with WR, i.e. ramified analysis plus rule W. We consider, for WTN, ordinal, cardinal, and real numbers. We prove that all sets are countable and establish the axiom of choice. For real numbers we discuss difficulties with treating Lebesgue measure theory in the standard way, and indicate ways of possibly remedying the situation. Finally, we consider arithmetical set theory, AS, which is PN itself.