Infinite Ascent : A Short History of Mathematics

English

Series: Modern Library Chronicles Ser.

ISBN: 0812978714

EAN: 9780812978711

Category: Mathematics / History & Philosophy/Mathematics / General/

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group

Release Date: 01/08/2008

Synopsis: InInfinite Ascent, David Berlinski, the acclaimed author ofThe Advent of the Algorithm, A Tour of the Calculus, andNewtons Gift, tells the story of mathematics, bringing to life with wit, elegance, and deep insight a 2,500-year-long intellectual adventure. Berlinski focuses on the ten most important breakthroughs in mathematical historyand the men behind them. Here are Pythagoras, intoxicated by the mystical significance of numbers; Euclid, who gave the world the very idea of a proof; Leibniz and Newton, co-discoverers of the calculus; Cantor, master of the infinite; and Godel, who in one magnificent proof placed everything in doubt. The elaboration of mathematical knowledge has meant nothing less than the unfolding of human consciousness itself. With his unmatched ability to make abstract ideas concrete and approachable, Berlinski both tells an engrossing tale and introduces us to the full power of what surely ranks as one of the greatest of all human endeavors. From the Hardcover edition.

Excerpt: Unknown Property Excerpt

Infinite Ascent : A Short History of Mathematics

Illustrated: Yes

Format: Paperback

Height: 0.48 inches

Width: 5.15 inches

Length: 7.99 inches

Weight: 5.78 oz

Pages: 224