John Napier by Lynne Gladstone-Millar
When John Napier published his invention of logarithms in 1614 he was announcing one of the greatest advances in the history of mathematics, and log tables were used universally until the mid-1970s. With his Rabdologia, an ingenious calculating tool composed of numbered rods which came to be known as 'Napier's Bones', he enabled people in the marketplace to do multiplication sums without knowing any multiplication tables. Perhaps the most extraordinary thing about this most extraordinary man was that his great inventions were made without the stimulus of talking to other mathematicians in mainstream Europe. Working away in comparative isolation in a tower house in Scotland, Napier produced methods of calculations that literally changed lives all over the world.What a wonderful little book: it is beautifully written and has wonderful photographs and illustrations.. Moreover it accomplishes its purpose, to give us a glimpse into the nature and times of John Napier.' History of Mathematics Newsletter 'This work offers a fascinating insight to a man whose name is know by all Scots, but whose work and mind reached far beyond the fields of maths and science.' Life and Work 'Although this is slender volume it is a delight to read, with numerous illustrations enhancing the well-written text. Not only are Napier's life and inventions described, but there are chapters which put these in context.' Mathematical Association News
Lynne Gladstone-Millar is a freelance journalist and writer.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9781901663709 |
| ISBN 10 | 1901663701 |
| Title | John Napier |
| Author | Lynne Gladstone-Millar |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Paperback |
| Publisher | NMSE - Publishing Ltd |
| Year published | 2003-03-18 |
| Number of pages | 64 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |