An Episodic History of Mathematics: Mathematical Culture Through Problem Solving (Mathematical Association of America Textbooks)

An Episodic History of Mathematics delivers a series of snapshots of the history of mathematics from ancient times to the twentieth century. The intent is not to be an encyclopedic history of mathematics, but to give the reader a sense of mathematical culture and history. The book abounds with stories, and personalities play a strong role. The book will introduce readers to some of the genesis of mathematical ideas. Mathematical history is exciting and rewarding, and is a significant slice of the intellectual pie. A good education consists of learning different methods of discourse, and certainly mathematics is one of the most well-developed and important modes of discourse that we have. The focus in this text is on getting involved with mathematics and solving problems. Every chapter ends with a detailed problem set that will provide the student with many avenues for exploration and many new entrees into the subject.