How to Read Historical Mathematics - Couverture rigide

Wardhaugh, Benjamin

Couverture rigide

ISBN 10 : 0691140146 ISBN 13 : 9780691140148

Editeur : Princeton University Press, 2010

Synopsis

Techniques for deciphering texts by early mathematicians

Writings by early mathematicians feature language and notations that are quite different from what we're familiar with today. Sourcebooks on the history of mathematics provide some guidance, but what has been lacking is a guide tailored to the needs of readers approaching these writings for the first time. How to Read Historical Mathematics fills this gap by introducing readers to the analytical questions historians ask when deciphering historical texts.

Sampling actual writings from the history of mathematics, Benjamin Wardhaugh reveals the questions that will unlock the meaning and significance of a given text--Who wrote it, why, and for whom? What was its author's intended meaning? How did it reach its present form? Is it original or a translation? Why is it important today? Wardhaugh teaches readers to think about what the original text might have looked like, to consider where and when it was written, and to formulate questions of their own. Readers pick up new skills with each chapter, and gain the confidence and analytical sophistication needed to tackle virtually any text in the history of mathematics.

• Introduces readers to the methods of textual analysis used by historians
• Uses actual source material as examples
• Features boxed summaries, discussion questions, and suggestions for further reading
• Supplements all major sourcebooks in mathematics history
• Designed for easy reference
• Ideal for students and teachers

A propos du livre

À propos de l?auteur

Benjamin Wardhaugh is a postdoctoral research fellow at All Souls College, University of Oxford. He is the author of Music, Experiment, and Mathematics in England, 1653-1705.

Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Princeton University Press
• Date d'édition: 2010
• Langue: anglais
• ISBN 10: 0691140146
• ISBN 13: 9780691140148
• Reliure: Relié
• Nombre de pages: 136
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible
• Personne responsable: non disponible