Things a Computer Scientist Rarely Talks About by Donald E Knuth

Things a Computer Scientist Rarely Talks About by Donald E Knuth

How does a computer scientist understand infinity? What can probability theory teach us about free will? Can mathematical notions be used to enhance one's personal understanding of the Bible? This book contains six informal lectures by computer scientist Donald E. Knuth exploring the relationship between his vocation and his faith, revealing the unique perspective that his work with computing has lent to his understanding of God. Knuth's starting point is his 3:16 project, an application of mathematical "random sampling" to the books of the Bible. The first lectures tell the story of the project's conception and execution, exploring the complex dimensions of language translation, aesthetics, and theological history. Knuth also reveals the many insights that he has gained along the way from such interdisciplinary work. The theological musings culminate in a final lecture which tackles infinity, free will, and the other "big questions" that lie at the juncture of theology and computation. Each lecture ends with a question and answer exchange.

Knuth, Donald E.: - Donald E. Knuth is one of the world's pre-eminent computer scientists, whose works have had a profound influence on the subject since the publication in 1968 of the first volume of The Art of Computer Programming. Knuth created TeX, a language for typesetting mathematical and scientific texts, and METAFONT, a computer software system for alphabet design. He is professor emeritus at Stanford University.

SKU	Unavailable
ISBN 13	9781575863269
ISBN 10	157586326X
Title	Things a Computer Scientist Rarely Talks About
Author	Donald E Knuth
Series	Lecture Notes
Condition	Unavailable
Binding Type	Paperback
Publisher	Centre for the Study of Language & Information
Year published	2003-08-01
Number of pages	257
Cover note	Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
Note	Unavailable