Customer Reviews

Women in Mathematics

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Traces the lives of notable women whose work in
mathematics is best appreciated through an under
standing of the societies that shaped their lives.
Traces the impact of their work; reinforces women's participation in
enduring intellectual achievements and discounts
the popular notion that we value mathematical
ignorance as a social grace. Explains the power
full satisfactions and aesthetic values which equal
any other branch of knowledge.

Women in Mathematics provides a history from the 6th century bc to the present of women's contribution to mathematics. Women were not emancipated to receive a full education until the 19th century, and therefore their contribution to mathematics was more of a "helping hand" than a firm discovery of historical landmarks in math. Nevertheless, the author provides biographical data on the feminine powerhouses of their time. Emphasis is made on their papers written and awards received. One should remember that much was discovered in physics and astronomy that contained mathematical theories as well. Since the bulk of today's mathematics comes to us from Europe, the reader will explore other sources (Chinese and Arabic) to determine if mathematics was limited to Europe.

A compelling story of the development of mathematics.If students were taught from Osen's book, they would have greater appreciation and interest in this mportant subject. Teachers, especially, couldn make the subject of mathematics considerably more interestin.

This book examines the lives of women mathematicians from antiquity to the present. Osen describes the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of some of history's most fascinating people with a perspective no male could bring to the subject. I'd love to discuss the matter with the author.