From primitive number notions to relativity -- this extraordinary story of mathematics presents what is charming or provocative in the science of numbers, as well as what is instructive. Beginning with a romantic Hindu legend, the author traces the history of mathematics down to the present day, including interesting anecdotes about the great mathematicians and dramatizing notable moments in the development of this basic science. This factual material emphasizes what is new in mathematics, in addition to what is old but still important in many branches of scientific activity. Among the many practical applications of mathematics discussed are the arithmetic of thinking machines, the elementary numerical aspects of the atom, some simple mathematics of radar and rockets, and probabilities in games of chance. Algebra is applied to aesthetic formulas, geometry to dynamic symmetry, trigonometry to the beauty of musical tones. Non-euclidean geometry and the algebra of logic are compared with the conventional varieties. Statistics is shown to be a means of verifying hypotheses and controlling industrial processes; Newton's calculus concepts and freed of manipulative detail, and the Einstein theory is reduced to its simplest form. Finally, some space is give to infinity, common domain of scientists, theologians, and the ever-curious layman. The book was written primarily for the layman who has wanted a popular exposition of the fundamential concepts of mathematics that are important in the world today. The student of mathematics, however, will also find it of exceptional interest.

The Main Stream of Mathematics

Science & Math

Edna E. Kramer

Mathematics

Oxford University Press

<p>The book traces the development of the most important mathematical concepts, giving special attention to the lives and thoughts of such mathematical innovators as Pythagoras, Newton, Poincare, and Godel. Beginning with a Sumerian short story - ultimately linked to modern digital computers - the author clearly introduces concepts of binary operations; point-set topology; the nature of post-relativity geometries; optimization and decision processes; erogodic theorems; epsilon-delta arithmetization; integral equations.</p>

Nature and Growth of Modern Mathematics

HAWTHORN

<p>Paperback: 321 pagesPublisher: Scholars Book Shelf (June 15, 1988)Language: English</p>

History

Americas

Scholars Book Shelf

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