Numbers: Computers, Philosophers, and the Search for Meaning

The History of Mathematics

by John Tabak

Discusses the invention of numbers, including the daily applications, concepts, and the metric and American systems of measurement.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Michelle]

I learned alot about the development of math though discovery, collaboration of many mathematician and experimentation. Numbers are the basics of mathematics. We rely on number to carry out many daily activities such as the mapping of the universe, buying lunch and the running of computer programs. Tabak also gave some interesting insight on how Babylonians, Roman, Arab, Indian and Chinese thinkers influence the number systems of today.

[George Marshall]

This was way lower level than I was initially expecting, but a great historical overlook. Would be great for a middle or early high schooler interested in numbers or infinity. Would make simple and clear material for a school report, and provides a short list of age appropriate math journals and email lists related to the subject for those who want to dig deeper.

[Nuno Gaspar]

Nice reading. Would recommend to anyone interested in the birth of mathematics