This book explains, in clear, non-technical language, the key differences between advanced, research-level mathematics, and the sort of mathematics most of us learn at school. The most fundamental differences are philosophical, and readers of this book will emerge with a clearer understanding of paradoxical-sounding concepts such as infinity, curved space, and imaginary numbers. Gowers covers both general aspects of mathematical thought and more specific topics, and the book closes with a chapter answering common questions ... Read More
This book explains, in clear, non-technical language, the key differences between advanced, research-level mathematics, and the sort of mathematics most of us learn at school. The most fundamental differences are philosophical, and readers of this book will emerge with a clearer understanding of paradoxical-sounding concepts such as infinity, curved space, and imaginary numbers. Gowers covers both general aspects of mathematical thought and more specific topics, and the book closes with a chapter answering common questions about the mathematical community (such as "Is it true that mathematicians burn out at the age of 25?") Read Less
