Here is the link to a corrections page. The remainder of this page is devoted to describing the book.

Cambridge University Press

The Pleasures of CountingTom W Körner
University of Cambridge

What is the connection between the outbreak of cholera in Victorian Soho, the Battle of the Atlantic, African Eve and the design of anchors? One answer is that they are all examples chosen by Dr Tom Körner to show how a little mathematics can shed light on the world around us, and deepen our understanding of it. Dr Körner, an experienced author, describes a variety of topics which continue to interest professional mathematicians, like him. He does this using relatively simple terms and ideas, yet confronting difficulties (which are often the starting point for new discoveries) and avoiding condescension. If you have ever wondered what it is that mathematicians do, and how they go about it, then read on. If you are a mathematician wanting to to explain to others how you spend your working days (and nights), then seek inspiration here.

If you wish to see the preface press here.


Paperback
ISBN 0521568234
Published December 6th 1996
£17.95 (US $29.95)

There is also a Hardback available
ISBN 052156087X
£50 (US $59.95)

Contents: PART I. THE USES OF ABSTRACTION

1. Unfeeling statistics 2. Prelude to a battle 3. Blackett 4. Aircraft versus submarine

PART II. MEDITATIONS ON MEASUREMENT 5. Biology in a darkened room 6. Physics in a darkened room 7. Subtle is the Lord 8. A Quaker mathematician 9. Richardson on war

PART III. THE PLEASURES OF COMPUTATION

10. Some classic algorithms 11. Some modern algorithms 12. Deeper matters

PART IV ENIGMA VARIATIONS

13. Enigma 14. The Poles 15. Bletchley 16. Echoes

PART V. THE PLEASURES OF THOUGHT

17. Time and chance 18. Two mathematics lessons 19. Last thoughts

APPENDICES

Appendix A. Further reading, Appendix B. Sources, Appendix C. Some notations

540 pp., 67 line diagrams, 170 exercises.


[CUP Home Page]