Mathematics in Berlin

by H.G.W. Begehr (Editor), H. Koch, J. Kramer

This book is a font of information for readers interested in the mathematical past and present of Berlin. It presents a comprehensive, condensed overview of mathematical activity in Berlin, beginning with the foundation of the Academy by Leibniz and carrying over almost to the present day. Many towering figures in mathematical history worked in Berlin, and thus most of the chapters of this book are essentially concise biographies of these luminaries. The presentations are held together and complemented by a few articles examining the overall development of entire periods of scientific life at Berlin. Chapters cover the foundation of the University of Berlin, the "Golden Age" of mathematics (spanning the second half of the 19th century), the Nazi period, the development of mathematics in East and West Berlin during the political division of the city, and the merging of the formerly separated mathematical communities with the reunification of Germany.

216 pages, Paperback

First published September 2, 1998

Reviews

[Tue Le · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable exploration of how mathematical research was conducted in Berlin from the nineteenth century till after the Second World War. Berlin was indeed one of the main mathematical centers of the world, capable of attracting some of the best mathematicians of the time.