This book traces the historical development of four different mathematical concepts by presenting readers with the original sources, yielding the rewards of a deeper understanding of the subject, an appreciation of the details, and a glimpse into the direction research has taken. Each chapter showcases a masterpiece of mathematical achievement, anchored around a sequence of selected primary sources. The authors begin by studying the interplay between the discrete and continuous, with a focus on sums of powers. They proceed to the development of algorithms for finding numerical solutions of equations as developed by Newton, Simpson and Smale. Next they explore our modern understanding of curvature, with its roots in the emerging calculus of the 17th century, while the final chapter ends with an exploration of the elusive properties of prime numbers, and the patterns found therein. The book includes exercises, numerous historical photographs, and an annotated bibliography.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
From the reviews:
"This book is closely related to courses of mathematics held for students at New Mexico State University . . An important aspect of the book is the numerous exercises, which should help students to gain a deeper insight into the presented material. Numerous references and well-organized indices make the book easy to use. It can be recommended for university libraries and students with an interest in the history of mathematics presented from a modern point of view." (EMS Newsletter, September, 2008)
"This book consists of four chapters, each of which presents a 'sequence of selected primary sources' leading up to a 'masterpiece of mathematical achievement'. . Each chapter contains . lots of historical comments sketching the further development of the topic. There are also a lot of exercises. . This is a well written and entertaining book that can (and should) be used in seminars or reading courses." (Franz Lemmermeyer, Zentralblatt MATH, Vol. 1140, 2008)
