Computation, Proof, Machine
Mathematics Enters a New Age

Computation is revolutionizing our world, even the inner world of the “pure” mathematician. Mathematical methods – especially the notion of proof – that have their roots in classical antiquity have seen a radical transformation since the 1970s, as successive advances have challenged the priority of reason over computation. Like many revolutions, this one comes from within. Computation, calculation, algorithms – all have played an important role in mathematical progress from the beginning – but behind the scenes, their contribution was obscured in the enduring mathematical literature. To understand the future of mathematics, this fascinating book returns to its past, tracing the hidden history that follows the thread of computation. Along the way it invites us to reconsider the dialog between mathematics and the natural sciences, as well as the relationship between mathematics and computer science. It also sheds new light on philosophical concepts, such as the notions of analytic and synthetic judgment. Finally, it brings us to the brink of the new age, in which machine intelligence offers new ways of solving mathematical problems previously inaccessible. This book is the 2007 Winner of the Grand Prix de Philosophie de l'Académie Française.

Reviews & endorsements

"In this pithy, award-winning account of the growing role of computation in mathematics, Gilles Dowek adds further evidence, if any were needed, that the Age of the Algorithm is upon us. A master storyteller, the author takes the reader on an exhilarating journey through the history of mathematics, as he explains, in engaging, vivid prose, why to prove is to compute. A delightful read brimming with big ideas."
Bernard Chazelle, Princeton University

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Product details

• Date Published: April 2015
• format: Adobe eBook Reader
• isbn: 9781316382721

• contains: 6 b/w illus.
• availability: This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.