Calculus: Concepts and Methods

by Ken Binmore, Joan Davies

This second edition of a text for a course on calculus of functions of several variables begins with basics of matrices and vectors and a chapter recalling the important points of the theory in one dimension. It then introduces partial derivatives via functions of two variables and then extends the discussion to more than two variables. This pattern is repeated throughout the book, with two variables being used as a springboard for the more general case. The book distinguishes itself from the competition with its introduction of elementary difference equations, including the use of the difference operator, as well as differential equations and complex numbers. It overcomes the difficulty of visualizing curves and surfaces from equations with the use of many computer graphics in full color, and it contains more than 250 exercises. With applications to economics and an emphasis on practical problem-solving in the sciences rather than the proof of formal theorems, this text should provide excellent motivation to students.

Genres: Mathematics, Calculus, Economics

567 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Professor of Economics at UCL, after holding corresponding positions at LSE and the University of Pennsylvania and Michigan. Onetime Professor of Mathematics at LSE.

Author of 77 published papers and 11 books. Research in evolutionary game theory, bargaining theory, experimental economics, political philosophy, mathematics and statistics.

Grants from National Science Foundation (3), ESRC (1), STICERD (2) and others. Chairman of LSE Economics Theory Workshop (10 years), Director of Michigan Economic Laboratory (5 years). Fellow of the Econometric Society and British Academy. Extensive collaboration with 25 co-authors.

Awarded the CBE in the New Years Honours List 2001 largely for his role in designing the UK 3G Spectrum Auction.

Reviews

[Kaurmanxo]

goes well into depth of overall basic calculus concepts that sets the stage for later coursework. however, it has a tendency to mention rules and forget others and the examples for starting derivative problems were subpar. going into this good, one should have some understanding of calculus, which goes against the assumption that this book is advertised by for being good for students in calc 1 + 2. much better for students that need a revision tool going into calc 2 or need a quick handbook for calc 3 (as i was).

[Praveen Kishore]

A gem of a book. Must for those who are taking up economics.