The Mathematical Work of Charles Babbage

by J. M. Dubbey

Overview

Charles Babbage (1791–1871) is today remembered mainly for his attempt to complete his difference and analytical engines, the principles of which anticipate the major ideas of the modern digital computer. This book describes the evolution of Babbage's work on the design and implementation of the engines by means of a detailed study of his early mathematical investigations. Babbage is an almost legendary figure of the Victorian era, yet relatively little is known about him and no authoritative account of his life and work has appeared. He was primarily a mathematician and his early working life was devoted mainly to the study of pure mathematics. While containing much biographical information, this book concentrates on this crucial aspect of Babbage's work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521524766
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	02/12/2004
Edition description:	Revised ed.
Pages:	244
Product dimensions:	5.43(w) x 8.46(h) x 0.59(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. British mathematics 1800–30; 3. The Analytical Society; 4. The calculus of functions; 5. 'The Philosophy of Analysis'; 6. Miscellaneous papers in analysis, probability and geometry; 7. Notation; 8. Babbage and his computers; 9. Conclusion; Appendix; Index.