Presents the life and accomplishments of the mathematician who inveted game theory, focusing on his quirky and nontraditional methods of teaching at Princeton University
Siobhan Roberts Books
Siobhan Roberts possesses a remarkable ability to illuminate the intricate worlds of mathematics and science, making complex ideas accessible and engaging for a broad audience. Her writing delves into the lives and work of mathematicians, uncovering the profound human stories and intellectual journeys behind abstract concepts. As a celebrated journalist, Roberts brings her keen insights to prominent publications, enriching the discourse on science and mathematics.
"There is perhaps no better way to prepare for the scientific breakthroughs of tomorrow than to learn the language of geometry." ―Brian Greene, author of The Elegant Universe. Geometry encompasses much more than shapes and numbers; it influences architecture, microchips, car design, animated films, food molecules, and even our body chemistry. Siobhan Roberts presents Donald Coxeter, one of the greatest geometers of the twentieth century, as the ideal guide to the wonders of geometry. Historical figures like Pythagoras, Plato, Archimedes, and Euclid were all geometers, and their legacies highlight Coxeter's contributions, showcasing geometry as a dynamic, evolving field that has been foundational to civilization. His renowned Coxeter groups and diagrams are regarded by mathematicians as essential tools, and his most significant achievement lies in preserving classical geometry during a time when the discipline favored austerity and rationality. Coxeter's influence extended beyond mathematics; artist M. C. Escher credited him with inspiring his Circle Limit patterns, while inventor Buckminster Fuller acknowledged that his geodesic dome was greatly influenced by Coxeter's ideas. This book serves as an elegant portal into the captivating and intricate realm of geometry.