Abstract

This talk is part of a lecture course. Wait, don’t go! We are very chill: no syllabus, no exams, and quality banter. The aim is to give a fairly relaxed overview of the history of Western mathematical ideas, from Greece via Islam into the Enlightenment, with the potential to cover aspects of the late 18th and the 19th century towards the end.

The course presumes no particular or strong mathematical background (it is presupposed that most of the students are mathmos or equivalent, but if you are a sociologist, you can surely emulate mathmo behaviour). The focus is more about mathematical ideas and styles, and the historical influences on, and influences of mathematics on its contemporary world. Knowledge of history is also not expected, but we cannot guarantee that you will not obtain some. A good sense of humour is required. For safety reasons, in-person attendance is only possible for University members.

This year we are not allowed to give the lectures at the Centre for Mathematical Sciences. The lectures therefore take place in various other venues. We are very grateful that the Department of Sociology is willing to support the teaching of the history of mathematics. You can also join via Zoom.

Today’s topic: We continue the Comprehensive Overview of Everything. Piers will then write some numbers on a whiteboard to give a timeline and to wake up all mathmos.