While this question can be discussed, it should have a clear answer by stating the following:
How can one go from a high school / low-level college understanding of mathematics (completed Calculus 1) to understand Zermelo–Fraenkel set theory?
Is this a large leap to make via self-study?
Regarding bullet point 1, I struggle to find a step of paths to reach my goal (understanding ZF set theory) because I do not have the understanding to know what might be involved in the process, much like a monkey does not know what steps he can take to do algebra.
Regarding bullet point 2, which may not have as precise an answer, how difficult is this step to make for an audodidactic?
The reason I ask this silly question is because I often find myself reading the Philosophy of Mathematics and the Foundations of Mathematics on Wikipedia and other websites. This set theory comes up time and time again in these discussions, and I would like to better understand why it is so canonical.
Thank you.
Get a book like the one I self-studied from right after high school. It was outdated when I studied it but I thought it was precise and evocative, I guess it is still on the shelves in most B&N's and Borders. Other Dover books too if you are down with the old school.
Certainly not, the only prerequisites are interest and dedication, with a dash of precision so you know what you think you know. Calculus material isn't very relevant but some of your skills will transfer. It will still be difficult, for me it was like a whole new way of thinking about math that was a lot more interesting than what I had learned in high school.