A History of π
by Petr Beckmann · first published 1970
75% recommend25% neutral
The history of pi, says the author, though a small part of the history of mathematics, is nevertheless a mirror of the history of man. Petr Beckmann holds up this mirror, giving the background of the times when pi made progress and also when it did not, because science was being stifled by militarism or religious fanaticism. The mathematical level of this book is flexible, and there is plenty for readers of all ages and interests.
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Why are people so fascinated with pi? I know, I know, long history, interesting twists and turns (you've just got to read Petr Beckman's A History of Pi), but I mean most people don't know that history. Why not e (there are cool phrases to memorize that, too)? Or, why not the value of the fine structure constant, that holds the mystery of the universe.…
on “A story of pi ” ↗If you're interested in pi, the book A History of Pi by Petr Beckman is a must read, not only for the good information but also for his nonconventional approach. Note that Archimedes used a 96-sided polygon to estimate bounds on the value of pi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi)!…
on “Take It to the Limit (2010)” ↗If you're interested in the mathematical development of Pi the book A History of Pi is a must read: https://www.amazon.com/History-Pi-Petr-Beckmann/dp/031238185...
on “The Man Who Invented Pi (2009)” ↗Introduction to Graph Theory - Richard J. Trudeau A History of Pi - Petr Beckmann Journey through Genius: The Great Theorems of Mathematics - William Dunham How to Bake Pi - Eugenia Chang These are all sort of 'pop-math' books -- that is, they're more intended to…
on “Ask HN: I suck at math, where to start?” ↗…Mathematics - W. W. Sawyer Proofs from The Book - Aigner and Ziegler The Joy of x - Steven Strogatz Things to Make and Do in the Fourth Dimension - Matt Parker What is Mathematics? - Courant and Robbins A History of PI - Petr Beckmann An Imaginary Tale - Paul Nahin e: The Story of a Number - Eli Maor Imagining Numbers - Barry Mazur Journey Through Genius - William Dunham Prime Obsession - John Derbyshire
on “Classic Mathematics Books for Lifelong Learners” ↗A rather important bit from the Wikipedia page to keep in mind when reading that quote: "His account was largely sourced from a 1797 work by Johann Beckmann titled A History of Inventions, Discoveries, and Origins.[11] In fact, Beckmann's account, and thus Mackay's by derivation, was primarily sourced to three anonymous pamphlets published in 1637 with an anti-speculative agenda.[36]…
on “Filecoin Breaks Record for ICO Funding” ↗