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The Birth of Mathematics
Profiles 10 individuals from Greece, India, Arabia, and medieval Italy during the time period of 700 BCE to CE 1300 as representatives of the numerous scholars who contributed to the field of mathematics.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2006
About the author
Michael J. Bradley
5 books2 followers"During his 26 years on the department’s faculty Dr. Bradley has taught 30 courses in math and computer science. His recent courses include Discrete Mathematics, Combinatorics and Graph Theory, Calculus, and Statistics. In 2001 he received the college’s Edward G. Roddy Outstanding Teacher Award.
He is the faculty advisor to the Merrimack College Math Team, a group of students who compete in intercollegiate problem-solving competitions and run the annual Merrimack College Math Contest.
Michael Bradley (professor) received a B.A. in mathematics from Merrimack College (’78) and an M.A. and Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Notre Dame (’80, ’83). His research interests are algebraic geometry, mathematics education, and the history of mathematics. He has written three textbooks that have been used at Merrimack College during the past 18 years. His set of five books titled “Pioneers in Mathematics” that profile the lives and work of 50 famous mathematicians have been translated into Korean, Chinese, and Japanese. His website provides college math professors and high school math teachers with ready-to-use projects to engage students with the life and work of famous mathematicians."
-- http://www.merrimack.edu/live/profile...
He is the faculty advisor to the Merrimack College Math Team, a group of students who compete in intercollegiate problem-solving competitions and run the annual Merrimack College Math Contest.
Michael Bradley (professor) received a B.A. in mathematics from Merrimack College (’78) and an M.A. and Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Notre Dame (’80, ’83). His research interests are algebraic geometry, mathematics education, and the history of mathematics. He has written three textbooks that have been used at Merrimack College during the past 18 years. His set of five books titled “Pioneers in Mathematics” that profile the lives and work of 50 famous mathematicians have been translated into Korean, Chinese, and Japanese. His website provides college math professors and high school math teachers with ready-to-use projects to engage students with the life and work of famous mathematicians."
-- http://www.merrimack.edu/live/profile...
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
April 4, 2011
I really hate math, this was for school. it wasn't hideous though.
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April 19, 2025Book Review: The Birth of Mathematics by Michael J. Bradley
In The Birth of Mathematics, Michael J. Bradley presents an insightful exploration of the foundational figures and concepts that shaped the field of mathematics from ancient times through the medieval period. This work is part of the Pioneers in Mathematics series, which profiles significant mathematicians and offers a broader understanding of the historical context in which they operated.
Overview and Themes
Bradley’s book profiles ten key individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Greek, Indian, Arab, and medieval Italian mathematicians, spanning the years 700 BCE to 1300 CE. Each chapter serves as a biographical sketch, detailing the contributions of these figures while situating their work within the larger narrative of mathematical evolution.
The themes addressed in the book include:
Cultural Exchange: Bradley emphasizes the rich interchange of ideas across civilizations. He illustrates how the mathematics of one culture influenced and invigorated the practices of another, highlighting the interconnectedness of knowledge.
Evolution of Mathematical Concepts: The author traces the development of fundamental concepts, such as geometry, number theory, and algebra, demonstrating how these ideas evolved over time through the contributions of various thinkers.
Historical Context: Each biographical account is set against a backdrop of historical events, providing readers with an understanding of how societal, political, and cultural factors influenced mathematical development.
Diversity in Mathematics: By showcasing mathematicians from different regions and cultures, Bradley underscores the diverse contributions to mathematics, challenging the notion that it is a singularly Western domain.
Writing Style and Reception
Bradley’s prose is both accessible and engaging, making complex mathematical ideas understandable to a general audience. His storytelling ability brings to life the personalities and contexts of the mathematicians he profiles, transforming their contributions into compelling narratives rather than dry historical accounts.
Critics have praised The Birth of Mathematics for its engaging writing and comprehensive approach. The book serves not only as an introduction to the subject of mathematics but also as a tribute to the pioneers who laid the groundwork for future discoveries. Readers have found it valuable for both personal enrichment and educational purposes, as it offers a blend of history and mathematics that is seldom encountered in standard textbooks.
Conclusion
In summary, The Birth of Mathematics by Michael J. Bradley is an enlightening and well-researched book that highlights the foundational figures and historical context of mathematics. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding the origins of mathematical thought and appreciating the diverse contributions that shaped this essential field. Whether you are a student, educator, or simply a curious reader, Bradley’s work provides valuable insights into the evolution of mathematics and the individuals who played pivotal roles in its history. This book is a must-read for those looking to deepen their knowledge of the mathematical pioneers who built the framework on which modern mathematics stands.
In The Birth of Mathematics, Michael J. Bradley presents an insightful exploration of the foundational figures and concepts that shaped the field of mathematics from ancient times through the medieval period. This work is part of the Pioneers in Mathematics series, which profiles significant mathematicians and offers a broader understanding of the historical context in which they operated.
Overview and Themes
Bradley’s book profiles ten key individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Greek, Indian, Arab, and medieval Italian mathematicians, spanning the years 700 BCE to 1300 CE. Each chapter serves as a biographical sketch, detailing the contributions of these figures while situating their work within the larger narrative of mathematical evolution.
The themes addressed in the book include:
Cultural Exchange: Bradley emphasizes the rich interchange of ideas across civilizations. He illustrates how the mathematics of one culture influenced and invigorated the practices of another, highlighting the interconnectedness of knowledge.
Evolution of Mathematical Concepts: The author traces the development of fundamental concepts, such as geometry, number theory, and algebra, demonstrating how these ideas evolved over time through the contributions of various thinkers.
Historical Context: Each biographical account is set against a backdrop of historical events, providing readers with an understanding of how societal, political, and cultural factors influenced mathematical development.
Diversity in Mathematics: By showcasing mathematicians from different regions and cultures, Bradley underscores the diverse contributions to mathematics, challenging the notion that it is a singularly Western domain.
Writing Style and Reception
Bradley’s prose is both accessible and engaging, making complex mathematical ideas understandable to a general audience. His storytelling ability brings to life the personalities and contexts of the mathematicians he profiles, transforming their contributions into compelling narratives rather than dry historical accounts.
Critics have praised The Birth of Mathematics for its engaging writing and comprehensive approach. The book serves not only as an introduction to the subject of mathematics but also as a tribute to the pioneers who laid the groundwork for future discoveries. Readers have found it valuable for both personal enrichment and educational purposes, as it offers a blend of history and mathematics that is seldom encountered in standard textbooks.
Conclusion
In summary, The Birth of Mathematics by Michael J. Bradley is an enlightening and well-researched book that highlights the foundational figures and historical context of mathematics. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding the origins of mathematical thought and appreciating the diverse contributions that shaped this essential field. Whether you are a student, educator, or simply a curious reader, Bradley’s work provides valuable insights into the evolution of mathematics and the individuals who played pivotal roles in its history. This book is a must-read for those looking to deepen their knowledge of the mathematical pioneers who built the framework on which modern mathematics stands.
February 3, 2021
Very informative book that presents a broader context for mathematics within history. The information is easy to understand and the book has an efficient setup. Would highly recommend to anyone with an interest in mathematics, history, or the history of mathematics.
August 20, 2024
I don’t like math, so no. Was it educational? Sure. Was it entertaining? Hell nah. Yes, but it was bad.
I am the Josephine, and I speak for the books.
I am the Josephine, and I speak for the books.
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews