The Pleasures of Counting

by T. W. Körner

Overview

In this engaging and readable book, Dr. Körner describes a variety of lively topics that continue to intrigue professional mathematicians. The topics range from the design of anchors and the Battle of the Atlantic to the outbreak of cholera in Victorian Soho. The author uses relatively simple terms and ideas, yet explains difficulties and avoids condescension. If you are a mathematician who wants to explain to others how you spend your working days, then seek inspiration here. This book will appeal to everyone interested in the uses of mathematics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521568234
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	12/05/1996
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	546
Product dimensions:	7.28(w) x 9.61(h) x 1.18(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; Part I. The Uses of Abstraction: 1. Unfeeling statistics; 2. Prelude to a battle; 3. Blackett; 4. Aircraft versus submarine; Part II. Meditations on Measurement: 5. Biology in a darkened room; 6. Physics in a darkened room; 7. Subtle is the Lord; 8. A Quaker mathematician; 9. Richardson on war; Part III. The Pleasures of Computation: 10. Some classic algorithms; 11. Some modern algorithms; 12. Deeper matters; 13. Enigma; 14. The Poles; 15. Bletchley; 16. Echoes; Part IV. The Pleasures of Thought: 17. Time and chance; 18. Two mathematics lessons; 19. Last thoughts; Appendix A. Further reading; Appendix B. Sources; Appendix C. Some notations; Bibliography; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"Körner provides interesting insights to the solving of Enigma messages and cryptology generally, and to other fascinating non-cryptologic subjects." Cryptologia

"This extremely enjoyable book aims to introduce the casual or 'mathematics for poets' reader to some interesting ways in which mathematics arises in the real world...contains a large number of entertaing anecdotes and quotations, especially about military history, as well as a list of recommendations for further reading and full source of information about the quotations." J.S. Joel, Mathematical Reviews

"Korner provides interesting insights to the solving of Enigma messages and cryptology generally, and to other fascinating non-cryptologic subjects." Cryptologia

"Korner, is an experienced teacher, and he has written his book in the expectation that once snared by mathematics, the reader will be forever enslaved....It is an entirely commendable project, one that Korner executes very well." David Berlinski, The Sciences

"...a wonderful book, a must for all those interested in mathematics and a treasure trove for those who want to enthuse future generations of youngsters for the beauty of our field." Paul Embrechts, JASA

From the Publisher