The Crest of the Peacock: Non-European Roots of Mathematics (Penguin mathematics) - Softcover

Joseph, George Gheverghese

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0140277781 ISBN 13: 9780140277784

Publisher: Penguin, 1992

Synopsis

'Like the crest of the peacock, like the gem on the head of a snake, so mathematics is at the head of all knowledge' - Vedanga Jyotisa (c. 500 BC). Most Westerners are unaware of the magnificent heritage of non-Western mathematics. However, as George Joseph makes clear, the Greeks were deeply influenced by the Egyptians and Babylonians, the Arabs made a major contribution, and India and China have an astounding range of successes to their credit. This expanded second edition includes a new preface and final section on those mathematical traditions not discussed in the first edition, as well as the latest findings in the field.

About this title

Review:

When we hear that math is both the most noble endeavour of our species and that it was born in Europe, we naturally tend to be suspicious. Few writers could be as well-qualified to write about ancient math across the world as George Gheverghese Joseph, whose The Crest of the Peacock: Non-European Roots of Mathematics is a bright example of clear exposition and argument. Though the topic might intimidate those averse to mathematics, history, non-Western cultures or some combination thereof, the book is essential for any reader who seeks a clearer understanding of any one of those. Joseph doesn't make things easy for non-mathematicians or non-historians, but the pleasure of meeting his challenge is robust. He explains ancient African, American and Asian methods of counting and manipulating numbers with ease, paying particular attention to the historical development and interrelationships between cultures. When discussing systems of mathematics as complex as those taught in ancient India and China, Joseph includes sample problems and discussions to help the interested student see numbers as past learners did. The revised addition includes a lengthy section entitled "Reflections" that updates and expands much of the material. Few readers will be able to match Joseph's grasp of both history and mathematics, but all will find The Crest of the Peacock as delightful and elegant as its subjects. --Rob Lightner

Review:

"Enthralling. . . . After reading it, we cannot see the past in the same comforting haze of age-old stories, faithfully and uncritically retold from teacher to pupil down the years. . . . Invaluable for mathematics teachers at all levels."--New Scientist

"What is valuable here is the unified approach that Joseph brings . . . and the non-technical clarity that the attempt to reorder historical priorities and educate his readers out of their European prejudices requires."--The Times Literary Supplement

"A magnificent contribution. . . . The conventional wisdom being challenged is that there is one mathematics, largely invented by Europeans. Joseph demonstrates convincingly that the conventional wisdom is false. . . . A rich and fascinating canvas."--Race & Class

"If only this book had been available when I was a student!. . . This book will carry you to a deeper place: an appreciation of the many non-European roots of mathematics."--Jerry Lenz, Mathematics Teacher

About this edition

• Publisher: Penguin
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 0140277781
• ISBN 13: 9780140277784
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 367