Great Book
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thought I would learn not much about maths history as history of maths is always about the same old subjects... but this book has a different approach to it. More human history than just history of ideas. Even, if it does not talk enough about 19 et 20 th century (that's the maths i like best) it is very nice. May be another book for the more recent mathematicians?
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Excellent read, and worh every penny.
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This is a fantastic book which traces the great concepts and inventions of Mathematics. If you are interested in the development of mathematics via the defining moments in it's history this book should delight. Though I don't considder myself to be particularly able in maths I do find it a very interesting subject so I was pleased with the way this book was written. It has about the right balance of discussion, history and examples (quite a few but the author makes it easy to follow the logic) - I thouroughly reccomend it!
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Mathematician Or Not, This Is A Math Book For Everyone!
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Absolutely fantastically written. Dunham takes unfamiliar mathematical theorems and makes sense out of the whole works. Plus, he gives detailed (and extremely interesting) accounts of the people and times of certain mathematics. The book has it all, history, humor, interest and most important of all the truth of the universe and the giants who attained those truths. The beauty of it is, you don't even need to be a great mathematician to enjoy and understand this wonderful book.
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An informative an entertaining look at the history of Math.
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I studied mathematics in university but never at any great level. I eventually went to law school and I now practice law. I give you this background so that you can appreciate what I know (and don't know about math). When I feel like reading about mathematics I look for a book that can give me a general idea of the math, but that does not get technical (and therfore boring). I also the lives of mathematicians intereting. Dunham's book fits the bill for excellent reading in mathematics. It has just enough meat to it so that I can get insights into various mathematical theories. However he never gets so technical that I fall asleep reading the material. The best parts of the book are the discussions of the various mathematician's and the importance of the mathematical in question. Both form the bulk of the book and are witty and informative. After reading this book, you get the impression that the history of mathematics is filled with a collection of absentminded and colourful men. These parts of the book can be read and enjoyed with absolutely no understanding of the mathematics involved. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to get some basic knowledge of mathematics and its history.
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A fascinating look at the human side of math.
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With tremendous story telling skills as well as an understanding and appreciation of math, Dunham brings to life great personalities in the field. As much a fascinating biography of each mathematician as an exploration of their contributions, the book is colorful and informative. A page turner for the mathematically or historically inclined reader.
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