The Pythagorean Theorem: A 4,000-Year History

by Eli Maor

An exploration of one of the most celebrated and well-known theorems in mathematics

By any measure, the Pythagorean theorem is the most famous statement in all of mathematics. In this book, Eli Maor reveals the full story of this ubiquitous geometric theorem. Although attributed to Pythagoras, the theorem was known to the Babylonians more than a thousand years earlier. Pythagoras may have been the first to prove it, but his proof—if indeed he had one—is lost to us. The theorem itself, however, is central to almost every branch of science, pure or applied. Maor brings to life many of the characters that played a role in its history, providing a fascinating backdrop to perhaps our oldest enduring mathematical legacy.

Genres: Mathematics, Science, History, Nature, Stem, Philosophy

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 21, 2007

Reviews

[Jrobertus · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not for everyone, but being a science nerd I enjoyed skimming through it. The author writes clearly about a complicated subject and makes it interesting and understandable. It has historical vignettes about the minds who have grappled with mathematical explorations, proofs and logic. The book goes beyond the Pythagorean theorem itself and goes into some calculus and hyperspace geometry with its connection to relativity. I had fun following along with some of the proofs and I'm sure it did my aging brain some good.

[Jógvan · Rating 5 out of 5]

6 stars if it was possible here on GR!

[Mykyta Kuzmenko · Rating 3 out of 5]

Непогана книжечка. Історичний огляд у контексті використання теореми Піфагора. Нічого особливого

[Swhite · Rating 4 out of 5]

Similar to his other books. Bits of history and a bit of relevant math put together in a competent fashion.

[Tonia Giannopoulou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Σκέτη απόλαυση! Ένα βιβλίο που σίγουρα πρέπει να διαβάσουν οι μαθηματικοί.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Our favorite theorem!

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good history of the Pythagorean Theorem, different proofs of it, different puzzles and brainteasers using it, and how it relates to other topics in math.

[for-much-deliberation ...]

...for so many years we have all utilised this theorem, it should be quite interesting to learn of its history...

[Murali Behara · Rating 4 out of 5]

So yes it is one of my favorites and a 101 of Math History! Apparently every genius has come-up with their own and a unique proof of the theorem. Spooky stuff! Must Read.

[Michael Dear · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent overview of one of the most important theorems in Mathematics. Accessible to most readers, although still challenging enough for people with a deeper knowledge of the subject.