99 Variations on a Proof by Philip Ording (PDF)

Description

An exploration of mathematical style through 99 different proofs of the same theoremThis book offers a multifaceted perspective on mathematics by demonstrating 99 different proofs of the same theorem. Each chapter solves an otherwise unremarkable equation in distinct historical, formal, and imaginative styles that range from Medieval, Topological, and Doggerel to Chromatic, Electrostatic, and Psychedelic. With a rare blend of humor and scholarly aplomb, Philip Ording weaves these variations into an accessible and wide-ranging narrative on the nature and practice of mathematics.Inspired by the experiments of the Paris-based writing group known as the Oulipo—whose members included Raymond Queneau, Italo Calvino, and Marcel Duchamp—Ording explores new ways to examine the aesthetic possibilities of mathematical activity. 99 Variations on a Proof is a mathematical take on Queneau’s Exercises in Style, a collection of 99 retellings of the same story, and it draws unexpected connections to everything from mysticism and technology to architecture and sign language. Through diagrams, found material, and other imagery, Ording illustrates the flexibility and creative potential of mathematics despite its reputation for precision and rigor.Readers will gain not only a bird’s-eye view of the discipline and its major branches but also new insights into its historical, philosophical, and cultural nuances. Readers, no matter their level of expertise, will discover in these proofs and accompanying commentary surprising new aspects of the mathematical landscape.

User’s Reviews

Reviews from Amazon users which were colected at the time this book was published on the website:

⭐Who would have thought a simple cubic with two integer roots could provide such a wealth of approaches? The solutions range over many (often surprising) fields. Even more fascinating is the imaginative range of mathematical communication that go way beyond standard mathematical exposition–verse, music, art,…. Each variation is followed by a clever and thought-provoking discussion, exploring mathematical history, style, humor, issues, biases and conflicts. It varies from laugh-out-loud funny to mind-blowing. This book is so delicious I had to limit myself to a couple of variations a day so I could savor it.

⭐I bought this book for myself, and then I had to buy copies for all of the people in my life who love math. The cover is beautiful, so even if you don’t appreciate math you can totally have it out on your coffee table to look smart. And if you _do_ appreciate math even a little bit, this is a MUST HAVE. It’s so fun and brilliant.

⭐This book looks at the solution of one simple cubic equation in a hundred different ways. It is well worth the read, as many fine points, both mathematical and those of human nature are explored. Enjoy!

⭐Good gift for any math lovers in your life.

⭐I only got as far as quadratic equations in high school, and can understand about 75% of the math in “99 Variations” — but beyond that, there’s enough wit, history, cross-cultural information, and fun here for anyone.

⭐Interesting

⭐Although mentioned on pages 116 and 242, I am not cross-referenced in this book’s “sources” or Index sections. Instead, the author treats me like an “outsider.” My fellow lawyers, Descartes and Fermat, got more respect!

⭐Excellent book and moderately priced.

⭐This book is a deep and thoughtful examination of the nature of mathematical arguments, of mathematical style, and of proof itself. Ording chooses to prove a “theorem” related to the solution of a cubic equation in 99 ways. What might appear, at first sight, as a rather trivial result provides an excellent vehicle through which to pursue this discussion. I strongly recommend Ording’s “99 Variations on a Proof” to anyone interested in mathematics: this book deserves to become a classic.

⭐This is a delightful book for those who love mathematics and for those curious about why others do.

⭐Ich war der Meinung, einen neuen Artikel bestellt zu haben. Ein gebrauchter wurde geliefert.

⭐

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