author: petr beckmann

Traces the history of the mathematical constant pi from the stone age through the computer age, discussing the background of the times when pi progressed, and when it did not.

Documents the calculation, numerical value, and use of the ratio from 2000 B.C. to the modern computer age, detailing social conditions in eras when progress was made.

... the history of π . Like Viete , Wallis had found in the form of an infinite product , but he was the first in history whose infinite sequence involved only ra- tional operations ; there were no square roots to obstruct the numeri- cal ...

Petr Beckmann holds up this mirror, giving the background of the times when pi made progress -- and also when it did not, because science was being stifled by militarism or religious fanaticism.

Traces the history of the mathematical constant pi from the stone age through the computer age, discussing the background of the times when pi progressed, and when it did not.

The mathematical level of this book is flexble, and there is plenty for readers of all ages and interests.

The mathematical level of this book is flexble, and there is plenty for readers of all ages and interests.