Sangaku Proofs: A Japanese Mathematician at Work

by J. Marshall Unger

Overview

The geometry problems colorfully inscribed on sangaku plaques that survive in shrines and temples throughout Japan have long fascinated those who appreciate the beauty of geometric figures and enjoy challenging puzzles. Aida Yasuaki (1847–1817) was one of the most prolific originators of the wasan tradition that produced them. Instead of presenting and solving problems using modern techniques, Unger presents Aida's own solutions, transcribing his calculations into familiar mathematical notation, highlighting connections between Aida's work and both the mathematics of today and aspects of Japanese cultural history.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781939161758
Publisher:	Cornell University Press
Publication date:	01/31/2015
Series:	Cornell East Asia Series , #175
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	132
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.38(d)

About the Author

J. Marshall Unger is Emeritus Professor of Japanese at Ohio State University. His research has focused on the history of Japanese, teaching Japanese as a second language, and writing systems of East Asia. Two of his books, The Fifth Generation Fallacy and Literacy and Script Reform in Occupation Japan, are available in Japanese.