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Mathematics: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

Mathematics: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

Current price: $12.99
Publication Date: November 28th, 2002
Publisher:
Oxford University Press, USA
ISBN:
9780192853615
Pages:
160
Usually Ships in 1 to 5 Days

Description

The aim of this book is to explain, carefully but not technically, the differences between advanced, research-level mathematics, and the sort of mathematics we learn at school. The most fundamental differences are philosophical, and readers of this book will emerge with a clearer understanding of paradoxical-sounding concepts such as infinity, curved space, and imaginary numbers. The first few chapters are about general aspects of mathematical thought. These are followed by discussions of more specific topics, and the book closes with a chapter answering common sociological questions about the mathematical community (such as "Is it true that mathematicians burn out at the age of 25?") It is the ideal introduction for anyone who wishes to deepen their understanding of mathematics.

About the Series: Combining authority with wit, accessibility, and style, Very Short Introductions offer an introduction to some of life's most interesting topics. Written by experts for the newcomer, they demonstrate the finest contemporary thinking about the central problems and issues in hundreds of key topics, from philosophy to Freud, quantum theory to Islam.

About the Author

Timothy Gowers is Rouse Ball Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge University and was a recipient of the Fields Medal for Mathematics, awarded for 'the most daring, profound and stimulating research done by young mathhematicians'.