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.

Promotional Information

If you have ever wondered what it is that mathematicians do, and how they go about it, then read this.

Reviews

'This is real mathematics, not the watered down versions served in 'maths for liberal arts' courses ... Not just maths lovers, but a much larger audience, should enjoy Korner's witty prose and enlightening comments, numerous historical passages and anecdotes. I would particularly recommend the book to all maths teachers.' Arturo Sangalli, New Scientist '... a glorious celebration of mathematics as a way of getting to grips with the world around us, employing a seamless mix of history, abstract thought and applications.' Ian Stewart, New Scientist '... a real gem of a book ... I don't recommend a book this strongly very often - if you have any interest in maths at whatever level and for any reason go out and buy a copy!' Computer Shopper '... delightful.' Douglas Quadling, The Magazine of the Cambridge Society 'This is a marvelous book which I commend to all mathematicians and students of mathematics.' C. M. Elliott, Mathematics Today 'If you have ever wondered what it is that mathemeticians do and why they do it then this may be the book for you.' L'Enseignement Mathematique ' ... well-researched book ... It is aimed at anyone who is willing to remember school mathematics. A cracking good tale: buy it for your children and read it yourself.' Mathematika