Newman, James R. (1956). The World of Mathematics, Vol 1. Simon and Schuster.
Day 1
The best way to introduce this four volume set is a quote from the author in the introduction of Volume 1; He says,
I have tried in this book to show the range of mathematics, the richness of its ideas and multplicity of its aspects. It presents mathematics as a tool, a language and a map; as a work of art and an end in itself; as a fulfillment of the passion for perfection. It is seen as an object of satire a subject for humor and source of controversy;… As an activity which has driven men to frenzy and provided them with delight. It appears in broad view as a body of knowledge made by men, yet standing apart and independent of them. In this collection, I hope, will be found material to suit every taste and capactiy.
Newman, 1956, p. vii
Day 2
Philip Jourdain was a British mathematician and “follower of Bertrand Russell” Although he lived a short life that was impacted by physical illness he managed to make a significant contribution the the field of Mathematics. The author credits Jourdain with having the rare ability of being able to communicate complex ideas in a simple manner. Over the next few days we will discuss his book The Nature of Mathematics. This book isn’t really a collection of equations and methods but more of a discussion of how and why these methods grew up. Newman compares Jourdains book with AN Whitehead’s Introduction to Mathematics and Mathematics for the General Reader by E.C. Titchmarsh which he recommends as classics for non mathematicians. the strength of Jourdains book over the other two is that he uniquely enlightens us on the relationship between logic and mathematics.
Day 3
Day 4
Transcript: Philip Jourdain states that the best way to become acquainted with new ideas is to study the way in which knowledge about them grew up. his book The Nature of mathematics is an attempt to convey the development of less discussed concepts like the negative number and logic. He writes that a big part of mathematics as well as the natural sciences is lessening the load we have to carry physically or mentally so we can focus our attention on unexplored areas of possible inquiry. This wouldn’t be possible, for example, if we had to memorize long chains of reasoning that go into the development of every math equation. Instead math and science provide shortened methods for getting what we want done without having to think through every step involved
