David Hilbert was a renowned German mathematician who made significant contributions to various branches of mathematics, including algebra, number theory, mathematical logic, and the foundations of mathematics. He is particularly known for his work on mathematical problems and for his influential lectures and seminars, which shaped the development of mathematics in the early 20th century.
Regarding Hilbert's views on Einstein's general relativity, there is a historical anecdote that has often been recounted but has been subject to some debate and interpretation. In November 1915, just a few days after Einstein presented his field equations of general relativity to the Prussian Academy of Sciences, Hilbert independently derived the same equations. There have been claims that Hilbert published his work slightly before Einstein, but the historical evidence suggests that Einstein's manuscript was submitted for publication just before Hilbert's.
There is no definitive evidence to suggest that Hilbert ever explicitly admitted that Einstein's general relativity was superior to his own mathematical approach to gravity. However, it is worth noting that Hilbert and Einstein had a friendly and collegial relationship. Hilbert recognized the significance and elegance of Einstein's theory and supported its development. In a lecture he gave in 1916, Hilbert discussed the importance of general relativity and praised Einstein's achievements.
It is important to remember that Hilbert was primarily a mathematician, and his interests lay in the formalization and mathematical rigor of physical theories. While he may not have fully embraced general relativity as a physicist, he acknowledged its importance and recognized its profound impact on the scientific community.