An Elementary System of Axioms for Euclidean Geometry based on Symmetry Principles

Abstract

In this article, I develop an elementary system of axioms for Euclidean geometry. On one hand, the system is based on the symmetry principles which express our a priori ignorant approach to space: all places are the same to us (the homogeneity of space), all directions are the same to us (the isotropy of space) and all units of length we use to create geometric figures are the same to us (the scale invariance of space). On the other hand, through the process of algebraic simplification, this system of axioms directly provides Weyl's system of axioms for Euclidean geometry. The system of axioms, together with its a priori interpretation, offers new views to philosophy and pedagogy of mathematics: (i) it supports the thesis that Euclidean geometry is a priori, (ii) it supports the thesis that in modern mathematics the Weyl's system of axioms is dominant to Euclid's system because it reflects the a priori underlying symmetries, (iii) it gives a new and promising approach to learn geometry which, through the Weyl's system of axioms, leads from the essential geometric symmetry principles of the mathematical nature directly to modern mathematics.