Amir Alexander
Amir Alexander is a historian of science and author known for his works on the history of mathematics and its cultural impacts. His books often explore the intersection of mathematics, culture, and society.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Infinitesimal
How a Dangerous Mathematical Theory Shaped the Modern World
Set against the backdrop of 17th-century Europe, this compelling narrative delves into the fierce intellectual battle over the concept of the infinitely small. The story unfolds as mathematicians and philosophers grapple with the revolutionary idea that would eventually lead to the development of calculus. The conflict pits the Jesuit order, staunch defenders of traditional Aristotelian philosophy, against innovative thinkers who champion the power of infinitesimals to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Through a rich tapestry of historical events and personal rivalries, the book explores how this mathematical controversy shaped the course of scientific thought and laid the groundwork for modern mathematics.
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