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Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra Paperback - 2007
by John Derbyshire
Written for those who are unencumbered by a fear of formulae, this volume presents a history of algebra that is intellectually satisfying and pleasantly challenging.
Summary
For curious nonmathematicians and armchair algebra buffs, John Derbyshire discovers the story behind the formulae, roots, and radicals. As he did so masterfully in Prime Obsession, Derbyshire brings the evolution of mathematical thinking to dramatic life by focusing on the key historical players. Unknown Quantity begins in the time of Abraham and Isaac and moves from Abel?s proof to the higher levels of abstraction developed by Galois through modern-day advances. Derbyshire explains how a simple turn of thought from ?this plus this equals this? to ?this plus what equals this?? gave birth to a whole new way of perceiving the world. With a historian?s narrative authority and a beloved teacher?s clarity and passion, Derbyshire leads readers on an intellectually satisfying and pleasantly challenging journey through the development of abstract mathematical thought.
Details
- Title Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
- Author John Derbyshire
- Binding Paperback
- Edition [ Edition: Repri
- Pages 400
- Volumes 1
- Language ENG
- Publisher Plume Books, New York
- Date May 29, 2007
- ISBN 9780452288539 / 0452288533
- Weight 0.72 lbs (0.33 kg)
- Dimensions 7.98 x 5.36 x 0.86 in (20.27 x 13.61 x 2.18 cm)
- Ages 18 to UP years
- Grade levels 13 - UP
- Library of Congress subjects Algebra - History, Equations - History
- Dewey Decimal Code 512.009
Media reviews
[A] very entertaining survey of the development of algebra. (Publishers Weekly)
Citations
- Science Books & Films, 11/01/2007, Page 250
- Scitech Book News, 03/01/2008, Page 29
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Plume Books, 2007. Softcover. Like New. 5x0x7. John Derbyshire discovers the story behind the formulae, roots, and radicals. As he did so masterfully in Prime Obsession, Derbyshire brings the evolution of mathematical thinking to dramatic life by focusing on the key historical players. Unknown Quantity begins in the time of Abraham and Isaac and moves from Abel's proof to the higher levels of abstraction developed by Galois through modern-day advances. Derbyshire explains how a simple turn of thought from "this plus this equals this" to "this plus what equals this?" gave birth to a whole new way of perceiving the world. With a historian's narrative authority and a beloved teacher's clarity and passion, Derbyshire leads readers on an intellectually satisfying and pleasantly challenging historical and mathematical journey.
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