The Nature & Power of Mathematics - Hardcover

Davis, Donald M.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0691087830 ISBN 13: 9780691087832

Publisher: Princeton University Press, 1994

Synopsis

In this engaging book, Donald Davis explains some of the most fascinating ideas in mathematics to the nonspecialist, highlighting their philosophical and historical interest, their often surprising applicability, and their beauty. The three main topics discussed are non-Euclidean geometry, with its application to the theory of relativity; number theory, with its application to cryptography; and fractals, which are an application in art, among other areas, of early mathematical work on iteration. Other topics include the influence of Greek mathematics on Kepler's laws of planetary motion, and the theoretical work that led to the development of computers.

Assuming the reader has some background in basic algebra and geometry, Davis relies on exercises to develop some of the important concepts. These exercises are designed to improve the reader's ability in logic, and enable him or her actually to experience mathematics at increasingly advanced levels.

About this title

Review:

"The author's enthusiasm for the subject is evident; the reader is swept along through a galaxy of ideas and is left with the feeling of having gained a deeper understanding of at least some branches of mathematics. It is written in a straightforward style with no gimmicks."--The Times Higher Education Supplement

Synopsis:

This volume explains ideas in mathematics to the non-specialist, highlighting the field's philosophical and historical interest. The main topics discussed are non-Euclidean geometry, number theory, with its application to cryptography, and fractals.

About this edition

• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 0691087830
• ISBN 13: 9780691087832
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 402