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Infinitesimal: How A Dangerous Mathematical Theory Shaped The Modern World,New
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Pulsing With Drama And Excitement, Infinitesimal Celebrates The Spirit Of Discovery, Innovation, And Intellectual Achievementand It Will Forever Change The Way You Look At A Simple Line.On August 10, 1632, Five Men In Flowing Black Robes Convened In A Somber Roman Palazzo To Pass Judgment On A Deceptively Simple Proposition: That A Continuous Line Is Composed Of Distinct And Infinitely Tiny Parts. With The Stroke Of A Pen The Jesuit Fathers Banned The Doctrine Of Infinitesimals, Announcing That It Could Never Be Taught Or Even Mentioned. The Concept Was Deemed Dangerous And Subversive, A Threat To The Belief That The World Was An Orderly Place, Governed By A Strict And Unchanging Set Of Rules. If Infinitesimals Were Ever Accepted, The Jesuits Feared, The Entire World Would Be Plunged Into Chaos.In Infinitesimal, The Awardwinning Historian Amir Alexander Exposes The Deepseated Reasons Behind The Rulings Of The Jesuits And Shows How The Doctrine Persisted, Becoming The Foundation Of Calculus And Much Of Modern Mathematics And Technology. Indeed, Not Everyone Agreed With The Jesuits. Philosophers, Scientists, And Mathematicians Across Europe Embraced Infinitesimals As The Key To Scientific Progress, Freedom Of Thought, And A More Tolerant Society. As Alexander Reveals, It Wasn'T Long Before The Two Camps Set Off On A War That Pitted Europe'S Forces Of Hierarchy And Order Against Those Of Pluralism And Change.The Story Takes Us From The Bloody Battlefields Of Europe'S Religious Wars And The English Civil War And Into The Lives Of The Greatest Mathematicians And Philosophers Of The Day, Including Galileo And Isaac Newton, Cardinal Bellarmine And Thomas Hobbes, And Christopher Clavius And John Wallis. In Italy, The Defeat Of The Infinitely Small Signaled An End To That Land'S Reign As The Cultural Heart Of Europe, And In England, The Triumph Of Infinitesimals Helped Launch The Island Nation On A Course That Would Make It The World'S First Modern State.From The Imperial Cities Of Germany To The Green Hills Of Surrey, From The Papal Palace In Rome To The Halls Of The Royal Society Of London, Alexander Demonstrates How A Disagreement Over A Mathematical Concept Became A Contest Over The Heavens And The Earth. The Legitimacy Of Popes And Kings, As Well As Our Beliefs In Human Liberty And Progressive Science, Were At Stakethe Soul Of The Modern World Hinged On The Infinitesimal.
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- Q: What is the page count of the book? A: The book has three hundred sixty-eight pages. This substantial length allows for an in-depth exploration of the mathematical theory discussed.
- Q: What type of binding does the book have? A: The book is available in hardcover binding. This ensures durability and a premium feel, ideal for collectors and readers alike.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point thirty-one inches in length, one point twenty-two inches in width, and nine point twenty-three inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard-sized hardcover book.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of this book is Amir Alexander. He is an award-winning historian known for his contributions to the field of mathematics history.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Infinitesimal'? A: The book explores the historical conflict surrounding the concept of infinitesimals in mathematics. It delves into how this theory influenced modern scientific thought.
- Q: Is this book suitable for casual readers? A: Yes, the book is suitable for casual readers interested in history and mathematics. It presents complex ideas in an engaging and accessible manner.
- Q: What historical events are covered in the book? A: The book covers significant events like the English Civil War and Europe's religious wars. These events contextualize the mathematical debates of the time.
- Q: Can this book be used as an educational resource? A: Yes, it can serve as an educational resource. It provides insights into the historical development of mathematical concepts, useful for students and educators.
- Q: How should I care for this hardcover book? A: To care for the hardcover book, keep it in a cool, dry place, and avoid direct sunlight. This will prevent damage to the cover and pages.
- Q: Is this book safe for young readers? A: Yes, the book is safe for young readers, although it is recommended for ages twelve and up due to its complex themes and subject matter.
- Q: What should I do if my book arrives damaged? A: If your book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most retailers have policies in place to handle such issues.
- Q: What are the additional features of this book? A: While there are no specific additional features listed, the book includes detailed historical narratives and significant mathematical concepts.
- Q: Is this book part of a series? A: No, 'Infinitesimal' is not part of a series. It stands alone as a comprehensive examination of its subject matter.
- Q: Who published this book? A: The book was published by Scientific American and Farrar, Straus and Giroux. These publishers are known for their quality publications in science and literature.
- Q: What is the target audience for this book? A: The target audience includes history enthusiasts, students of mathematics, and anyone interested in the evolution of scientific thought.
- Q: Does this book contain illustrations or diagrams? A: The details regarding illustrations or diagrams are not specified. However, many historical texts may include visual aids to enhance understanding.