The Pleasures of Counting
1st Edition
Published on 5. December 1996
978-1-316-02250-4 (ISBN)
Description
What is the connection between the outbreak of cholera in Victorian Soho, the Battle of the Atlantic, African Eve and the design of anchors? One answer is that they are all examples chosen by Dr Tom Koerner to show how a little mathematics can shed light on the world around us, and deepen our understanding of it. Dr Koerner, an experienced author, describes a variety of topics which continue to interest professional mathematicians, like him. He does this using relatively simple terms and ideas, yet confronting difficulties (which are often the starting point for new discoveries) and avoiding condescension. If you have ever wondered what it is that mathematicians do, and how they go about it, then read on. If you are a mathematician wanting to explain to others how you spend your working days (and nights), then seek inspiration here.
Reviews / Votes
'This is real mathematics, not the watered down versions served in 'maths for liberal arts' courses ... Not just maths lovers, but a much larger audience, should enjoy Koerner's witty prose and enlightening comments, numerous historical passages and anecdotes. I would particularly recommend the book to all maths teachers.' Arturo Sangalli, New Scientist '... a glorious celebration of mathematics as a way of getting to grips with the world around us, employing a seamless mix of history, abstract thought and applications.' Ian Stewart, New Scientist '... a real gem of a book ... I don't recommend a book this strongly very often - if you have any interest in maths at whatever level and for any reason go out and buy a copy!' Computer Shopper '... delightful.' Douglas Quadling, The Magazine of the Cambridge Society 'This is a marvelous book which I commend to all mathematicians and students of mathematics.' C. M. Elliott, Mathematics Today 'If you have ever wondered what it is that mathemeticians do and why they do it then this may be the book for you.' L'Enseignement Mathematique ' ... well-researched book ... It is aimed at anyone who is willing to remember school mathematics. A cracking good tale: buy it for your children and read it yourself.' MathematikaMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Cambridge University Press
Illustrations
Worked examples or Exercises; 170 Printed music items; 37 Tables, unspecified; 74 Line drawings, unspecified
File size
28,20 MB
ISBN-13
978-1-316-02250-4 (9781316022504)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
T. W. Koerner
The Pleasures of Counting
Book
12/1996
Cambridge University Press
€80.10
Shipment within 15-20 days
T. W. Koerner
The Pleasures of Counting
Book
12/1996
Cambridge University Press
€86.66
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Content
Preface; Part I. The Uses of Abstraction: 1. Unfeeling statistics; 2. Prelude to a battle; 3. Blackett; 4. Aircraft versus submarine; Part II. Meditations on Measurement: 5. Biology in a darkened room; 6. Physics in a darkened room; 7. Subtle is the Lord; 8. A Quaker mathematician; 9. Richardson on war; Part III. The Pleasures of Computation: 10. Some classic algorithms; 11. Some modern algorithms; 12. Deeper matters; 13. Enigma; 14. The Poles; 15. Bletchley; 16. Echoes; Part IV. The Pleasures of Thought: 17. Time and chance; 18. Two mathematics lessons; 19. Last thoughts; Appendix A. Further reading; Appendix B. Sources; Appendix C. Some notations; Bibliography; Index.
