Concepts of Modern Mathematics [Paperback]

Ian Stewart (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 1, 1995 | ISBN-10: 0486284247 | ISBN-13: 978-0486284248 | Edition: 1

In this charming volume, a noted English mathematician uses humor and anecdote to illuminate the concepts of groups, sets, subsets, topology, Boolean algebra, and other mathematical subjects. 200 illustrations.

Product Details

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Dover Publications; 1 edition (February 1, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0486284247
• ISBN-13: 978-0486284248
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #42,187 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

118 of 118 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars outstanding guide to higher math for the layman, October 17, 2000

By 

Michael Vanier (Pasadena, CA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Concepts of Modern Mathematics (Paperback)

This book is very much in the same spirit as more recent books such as Keith Devlin's "Mathematics, the New Golden Age" (which I also recommend). It explains various subjects in pure mathematics in order to make them accessible and interesting to non-mathematicians. A great variety of subjects are covered, including abstract algebra, group theory, number theory, and especially topology, to which the author devotes several chapters. The links between different branches of mathematics (e.g. topology and group theory) are given special attention, and one of the central themes of the book is the fundamental unity of mathematics. I strongly recommend this book to anyone with a serious interest in mathematics. Plus, the price is definitely right!

90 of 91 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A classic - the first version of this book appeared in 1975., March 8, 2001

By 

Randall Raus (Seal Beach, CA United States) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Concepts of Modern Mathematics (Paperback)

This charming book was written by a man who knows how to teach, and how to have fun. For example, as each successive topic is discussed, Mr. Stewart is careful to furnish the reader with an intuitive grasp of its main points. Only then, does he delve into the topic's details. However, what really makes this book readable is the author's wit, and sense of delight, as he illuminates--one-by-one--the abstract concepts of modern mathematics. Amazingly, this book can be read by almost anyone, and they will come away with an understanding of the why, and the wherefore, of modern math.

In theory at least, having a degree in pure math meant that I had insights that most engineers don't have. In reality, it meant I was more aware of what I didn't understand. When I got this book, I went straight to the topics I'd never gotten the point of: set theory, topology, and hyperspace. I was not disappointed, but it was not until I settled down and read the whole book that I really got the point. Modern mathematics (modern meaning the late 1800s on) provides a framework for all math. That is why it is--of necessity--more abstract, generalized, and rigorous.

Interestingly, the figures in this book are hand drawn. Perhaps its because this book has a way of transporting the reader to a university classroom - somewhere. It wouldn't have seemed right if the figures were anything but hand drawn.

128 of 135 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely brilliant!, December 25, 1998

By 

D. C. Carrad "augustabookman" (Augusta, GA United States) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Concepts of Modern Mathematics (Paperback)

Deserves 10 stars. Here is an author who understands so many advanced concepts and who can write smoothly, clearly and convincingly, bearing the reader along with his keen and interesting mind. Convincingly demonstrates the interrelationships between different areas of modern mathematics. Great mathematics for the layman without being in the slightest bit condescending. I have had an amateur's interest in mathematics since high school but was never able to follow it up professionally. This book is the best I have read in the 30 years I have had this interest. A delight to read, educational and informative.