The Transformation of Mathematics in the Early Mediterranean World: From Problems to Equations

by Reviel Netz

Overview

The transformation of mathematics from ancient Greece to the medieval Arab-speaking world is here approached by focusing on a single problem proposed by Archimedes and the many solutions offered. In this trajectory Reviel Netz follows the change in the task from solving a geometrical problem to its expression as an equation, still formulated geometrically, and then on to an algebraic problem, now handled by procedures that are more like rules of manipulation. From a practice of mathematics based on the localized solution (and grounded in the polemical practices of early Greek science) we see a transition to a practice of mathematics based on the systematic approach (and grounded in the deuteronomic practices of Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages). With three chapters ranging chronologically from Hellenistic mathematics, through late Antiquity, to the medieval world, Reviel Netz offers an alternate interpretation of the historical journey of pre-modern mathematics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781139810081
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	06/10/2004
Series:	Cambridge Classical Studies
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Reviel Netz is Associate Professor in the Department of Classics at Stanford University. He has published widely in the field of Greek mathematics: The Shaping of Deduction in Greek Mathematics: A Study in Cognitive History (1999) was runner-up for the Runciman Prize for 2000, and he is currently working on a complete English translation of and commentary on the works of Archimedes, the first volume of which was published in 2003. He has also written a volume of Hebrew poetry and an historical study of barbed wire.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. The problem in the world of Archimedes; 2. From Archimedes to Eutocius; 3. From Archimedes to Khayyam; Conclusion; References; Index.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"For the true mathematics historian, this is a fascinating exploration, perhaps different from one's previous ideas of this time period. Highly recommended." M.D. Sanford, Felician College

"...engaging, provocative, and definitely worth reading and thinking about." MAA Reviews, Fernando Q. Gouvea

"...recommended reading—for its thought-provoking ideas and lively writing—for those with a serious interest in the mathematics of ancient Greece and medieval Islam." - Mathematical Reviews, J.L. Berggren

Editorial Reviews

"For the true mathematics historian, this is a fascinating exploration, perhaps different from one's previous ideas of this time period. Highly recommended." M.D. Sanford, Felician College

"...engaging, provocative, and definitely worth reading and thinking about." MAA Reviews, Fernando Q. Gouvea

"...recommended reading—for its thought-provoking ideas and lively writing—for those with a serious interest in the mathematics of ancient Greece and medieval Islam." - Mathematical Reviews, J.L. Berggren

From the Publisher