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Zero

The Biography of a Dangerous Idea
By Charles Seife
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3.97 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 11,640 ratings, 1,101 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Zero by Charles Seife explores the fascinating history and profound implications of the concept of zero. The book delves into how zero has influenced disciplines like mathematics, science, and philosophy, highlighting its journey from ancient civilisations to modern-day applications. This thought-provoking read shows how something so seemingly simple can have such a complex and significant impact on our understanding of the world.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you're fascinated by the history of mathematics and enjoy exploring how the concept of zero has shaped science, philosophy, and culture. This book delves into the profound impact of zero on our understanding of the universe and its role in mathematical breakthroughs.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

This informative and easy-to-read book is the story of the people who battled over the meaning of the mysterious number - the scholars and mystics, the scientists and clergymen - who tried to understand zero.

A NEW YORK TIMES Notable Book on a perennially fascinating subject: the idea of ZERO

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In Zero, Charles Seife takes readers on a fascinating journey through the origins and tumultuous history of the number zero. This unique narrative blends history, philosophy, religion, and science to explore how a seemingly simple concept can spur on profound shifts across multiple disciplines.

Zero, a mathematical void that was initially absent in ancient civilisations, made its dramatic entrance through Eastern philosophy. As it travelled westward, zero encountered fierce resistance and passionate defenders alike. The book recounts the epic tale of the scholars, mystics, scientists, and clergymen who fought over the meaning and implications of zero. From the contemplations of Archimedes and the philosophical debates of Aristotle to the groundbreaking theories of Newton and Stephen Hawking, zero has baffled and challenged some of the greatest minds in history.

Zero delves deeply into the paradoxes and perplexities posed by this unassuming number. Its story is a testament to the power and danger of new ideas, showing how zero rattled the foundations of established scientific, mathematical, religious, and philosophical thought. The struggles over zero's acceptance spotlight the intellectual battles that have defined human progress throughout the centuries.

Beyond a mere mathematical symbol, zero's tale is intertwined with the evolution of civilisation itself. From its elusive beginnings to its vital role in modern theoretical physics, the book paints a vivid picture of zero's journey and its revolutionary impact. Charles Seife masterfully illuminates how zero has been instrumental in technological advancements and has underpinned major shifts in thought, right up to the present day.

Zero is not just the history of a number; it is the story of a concept that scandalised religions, revolutionised the sciences, and laid the groundwork for modern mathematics and technology. It is a compelling and accessible read that makes complex ideas approachable for all readers, telling the captivating story of the nothing that is everything.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Zero by Charles Seife has been praised as a well-written and lucid popular science book. Reviews highlight its wit and clarity, making complex mathematical concepts accessible. Critics commend Seife's ability to explain hard science and provide a comprehensive tour from ancient to modern theories about zero. The book is noted for being an engaging and painless way to gain complex knowledge.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780285635944

Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 12 October 2000

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Souvenir Press Ltd

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 177g

Pages: 256

Collections

Ancient & Classical History Charles Seife Education & Reference Non-Fiction Science & Nature Tim's Picks

About the Author

Charles Seife earned his BA in mathematics from Princeton University, an MS in mathematics from Yale University, and an MS in journalism from Columbia University. Trained by such mathematicians as Andrew Wiles, who solved Fermat's Last Theorem, and John Conway, who invented the 'game of life', Seife has done research in probability theory, artificial intelligence, signal processing, and the visualisation of the multidimensional spaces. He has worked for the Department of Defense and is currently an American correspondent for New Scientist. He has also written for numerous other publications including Scientific American, Science, The Economist, and Wired UK.

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