Ideas of Space: Euclidean, Non-Euclidean and Relativistic - Softcover

Gray, Jeremy

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0198539347 ISBN 13: 9780198539346

Publisher: Clarendon Press, 1989

Synopsis

The parallel postulate of Euclidean geometry occupies a unique position in the history of mathematics. This is an account of the history of the development of Euclidean, non-Euclidean and relativistic ideas of the shape of the universe. The author reviews the failure of classical attempts to prove the postulate, before showing how the work of Gauss, Lobachevskii and Bolyai laid the foundations of modern differential geometry by constructing geometries in which the parallel postulate fails. The material, which has been revised and updated for this edition, includes a chapter on the Arabic contribution to mathematical history.

About this title

Review

Reviews of this edition 'a very readable book that is stimulating and thought provoking.' New Scientist

From reviews of the first edition `Jeremy Gray has provided a superb exposition which tells a good story.' Mathematics Teaching

'This promises to become a classic text for those interested in considering changing mathematical perceptions of space. Gray's book is a pleasure to read.' Historia Mathematica

`An admirable exposition for well-educated laymen of the evolution of geometrical thought from before Euclid to black holes.' American Mathematical Monthly

Edition details

• Publisher: Clarendon Press
• Publication date: 1989
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198539347
• ISBN 13: 9780198539346
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 253