Yes, that is correct. Kurt Gödel, the renowned mathematician and logician, did indeed die due to self-imposed starvation. His death occurred on January 14, 1978. However, it is essential to note that the specific reasons behind his self-starvation are not entirely clear, as he left behind no suicide note or explicit explanation.
Gödel had a long history of health problems, including periods of mental instability. He suffered from depression and had a deep-seated fear of being poisoned. As a result, he was known to be extremely cautious about what he ate and drank, often sticking to a highly restricted diet. He was especially wary of food prepared by others and frequently refused to eat anything he hadn't prepared himself.
In the final years of his life, Gödel's paranoia about being poisoned intensified. He reportedly refused medical attention for his deteriorating health due to his fear of doctors and medications, leading to a decline in his physical condition. His wife, Adele Gödel, was his primary caregiver, but she was hospitalized for six months before his death, and during that time, Gödel's condition worsened significantly.
By the time his wife returned home, Gödel was in a severe state of physical and mental decline. He refused to eat and reportedly weighed only 65 pounds (approximately 29.5 kilograms) at the time of his death. His death certificate listed the cause of death as "malnutrition and inanition" (exhaustion due to lack of nourishment).
It is crucial to approach historical accounts of sensitive matters with respect and empathy, considering the complexities of an individual's life and struggles. Gödel's contributions to mathematics and logic were significant, and his death was a tragic event that left a profound impact on the scientific community.