Martin Gardner était un écrivain américain dont l'œuvre couvrait les mathématiques récréatives, la magie, la littérature, la philosophie et le scepticisme scientifique. Il possédait un talent unique pour rendre les sujets complexes accessibles et attrayants pour un large public. L'écriture de Gardner se caractérise par sa rigueur intellectuelle alliée à une curiosité ludique, invitant les lecteurs à explorer les merveilles de la logique et de l'univers. Son héritage durable réside dans sa capacité à inspirer une appréciation plus profonde de l'interconnexion de divers domaines du savoir.
Exploring a variety of intriguing mathematical concepts, this book offers fresh perspectives on knotted molecules, the hangman's paradox, and the classic game of cat's cradle. It delves into the realms of gambling and peg solitaire, while also examining the significance of pi and e. Each topic is presented with unique twists that challenge conventional understanding, making complex ideas accessible and engaging for readers interested in mathematics and its applications.
'A landmark, bringing together a lifetime's work on Lewis Carroll by writer and mathematician Martin Gardner. He dazzles on Carroll's puzzles and games of logic and entertains on everything from Alice's influence on the Beat poet Jack Kerouac to howmercury in hat linings turned hatters mad...it is unsurpassed' - Jackie Wullschlager, Financial Times 'The indispensable guide to a classic of English literature...no one who has ever wondered about the meaning of 'Jabberwocky' should fail to include on their Christmas list' - Robert McCrum, Observer
Focusing on engaging the mind, this collection offers a variety of problems and puzzles designed to stimulate and entertain. It serves as a workout for sluggish intellects, promoting mental agility through challenging projects. The book is dedicated to underpaid mathematics teachers, highlighting the importance of their role in fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Exploring a diverse range of mathematical and recreational topics, this book delves into packing spheres, the strategy game Reversi, and the intricacies of braids and polyominoes. It also examines board games, the fascinating digits of pi, and the whimsical puzzles crafted by Lewis Carroll. Each section offers insights into both the mathematical principles and the playful aspects of these subjects, making it a captivating read for enthusiasts of mathematics and games alike.
"What makes Gardner so appealing is his ease in exploring deep ideas . . . and making them accessible to the interested but nontechnical reader. This is a special talent and no one has ever displayed it quite as well as he does." — Los Angeles Times"Absorbing; enlightening; lucid; witty; inventive. An exemplar of science writing at its very best." — American Mathematical MonthlyA substantial revision of Martin Gardner's earlier well-known work on mirror symmetry and asymmetry, The New Ambidextrous Universe takes readers on an extraordinary journey. With Gardner’s guidance, they explore the two fundamental scientific discoveries of the past the asymmetric DNA helix and the overthrow of parity (left-right symmetry) in particle physics. Along the way, students will find absorbing and thought-provoking treatments of some of the deepest mysteries in modern physics.Author of more than 60 books, Martin Gardner has influenced and inspired generations of scientists, scholars, and other readers, especially those with an interest in mathematics. He originated Scientific American 's popular Mathematical Games column, which he wrote from 1956 until his retirement from the magazine three decades later. This republication of his revised edition of an earlier work features a new appendix of notes and corrections.
The collection showcases Martin Gardner's renowned Mathematical Recreations columns from "Scientific American," spanning 1979 to 1986. It highlights his ability to convey increasingly sophisticated mathematical concepts in clear, engaging prose. Readers will find a blend of intriguing mathematical explorations and correspondence from mathematicians reflecting on his ideas. This final compilation captures Gardner at his best, making it essential for anyone fascinated by the world of mathematics.
This is the first book of the updated collection of Mathematical Games from
Martin Gardner, the king of recreational mathematics. As well as the classic
puzzles, in this 2008 edition Gardner added lots of new material (game
variations, proofs and more). If you like Martin Gardner, you'll love these
books.
Calculus Made Easy has long been the most popular calculus primer, and this major revision of the classic math text makes the subject at hand still more comprehensible to readers of all levels. With a new introduction, three new chapters, modernized language and methods throughout, and an appendix of challenging and enjoyable practice problems, Calculus Made Easy has been thoroughly updated for the modern reader.