Perfect for history buffs and armchair algebra experts, Unknown Quantity tells the story of the development of abstract mathematical thought.

John Derbyshire discovers the story behind the formulae, roots, and radicals. As he did so masterfully in Prime Obsession, Derbyshire brings the evolution of mathematical thinking to dramatic life by focusing on the key historical players. Unknown Quantity begins in the time of Abraham and Isaac and moves from Abel's proof to the higher levels of abstraction developed by Galois through modern-day advances. Derbyshire explains how a simple turn of thought from "this plus this equals this" to "this plus what equals this?" gave birth to a whole new way of perceiving the world. With a historian's narrative authority and a beloved teacher's clarity and passion, Derbyshire leads readers on an intellectually satisfying and pleasantly challenging historical and mathematical journey.

Author: John Derbyshire
Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Plume Books
Published: 06/01/2007
Pages: 400
Weight: 0.72lbs
Size: 7.98h x 5.36w x 0.86d
ISBN: 9780452288539
Audience: Young Adult


Review Citation(s):
Science Books & Films 11/01/2007 pg. 250
Scitech Book News 03/01/2008 pg. 29

About the Author
John Derbyshire is a mathematician and linguist by education, a systems analyst by profession, and a celebrated writer in his spare time. His work appears frequently in National Review and The New Criterion. Born and raised in England, he has made his home in the United States for the past fifteen years.