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Description
What Is Mathematics?: An Elementary Approach to Ideas and MethodsFor more than two thousand years a familiarity with mathematics has been regarded as an indispensable part of the intellectual equipment of every cultured person. Today, unfortunately, the traditional place of mathematics in education is in grave danger. The teaching and learning of mathematics has degenerated into the realm of rote memorization, the outcome of which leads to satisfactory formal ability but does not lead to real understanding or to
For more than two thousand years a familiarity with mathematics has been regarded as an indispensable part of the intellectual equipment of every cultured person. Today, unfortunately, the traditional place of mathematics in education is in grave danger. The teaching and learning of mathematics has degenerated into the realm of rote memorization, the outcome of which leads to satisfactory formal ability but does not lead to real understanding or to greater intellectual independence. This new edition of Richard Courant's and Herbert Robbins's classic work seeks to address this problem. Its goal is to put the meaning back into mathematics. Written for beginners and scholars, for students and teachers, for philosophers and engineers, What is Mathematics?, Second Edition is a sparkling collection of mathematical gems that offers an entertaining and accessible portrait of the mathematical world. Covering everything from natural numbers and the number system to geometrical constructions and projective geometry, from topology and calculus to matters of principle and the Continuum Hypothesis, this fascinating survey allows readers to delve into mathematics as an organic whole rather than an empty drill in problem solving. With chapters largely independent of one another and sections that lead upward from basic to more advanced discussions, readers can easily pick and choose areas of particular interest without impairing their understanding of subsequent parts. Brought up to date with a new chapter by Ian Stewart, What is Mathematics?, Second Edition offers new insights into recent mathematical developments and describes proofs of the Four-Color Theorem and Fermat's Last Theorem, problems that were still open when Courant and Robbins wrote this masterpiece, but ones that have since been solved. Formal mathematics is like spelling and grammar--a matter of the correct application of local rules. Meaningful mathematics is like journalism--it tells an interesting story. But unlike some journalism, the story has to be true. The best mathematics is like literature--it brings a story to life before your eyes and involves you in it, intellectually and emotionally. What is Mathematics is like a fine piece of literature--it opens a window onto the world of mathematics for anyone interested to view.Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Published: 07/18/1996
ISBN: 9780195105193
Pages: 592
Weight: 1.70lbs
Size: 9.02h x 6.05w x 1.06d
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4.8 ★★★★★
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Product Reviews
★★★★★ 5
Game-Changer for Clean, Accurate Shelf Pin Holes!
This shelf pin jig absolutely delivered on everything I needed — the ease of use was fantastic right out of the box. Once I got the layout aligned, drilling was quick and precise. The accuracy is impressive, with clean, straight holes every time, and the included bits worked like a charm. The design is clever, compact, and durable — the aluminum plate feels premium and makes it easy to keep things straight. I love the versatility too; switching between 5mm and 1/4" bits was fast, and the guide holes are clearly labeled. The size is ideal for cabinets, bookcases, and even tighter spaces where a bulky jig wouldn’t fit. For anyone needing quick, repeatable shelf pin drilling, this jig speeds up the use and keeps your project moving fast without compromising quality. If you're doing any custom shelving or cabinet work, this is a must-have tool that saves time and eliminates guesswork.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 13, 2025
★★★★★ 4
Works well for DIY
Worked well for building bookshelf. Wish it maybe had som little pads on the back as some times it would slide a bit, but if I tightened it more it would dent the wood slightly. Overall very easy to use and worked well for its intended use.
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Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2026
★★★★★ 5
Solid thick aluminum construction
Size: 9 Holes
Very well made, thick aluminum construction and fully customizable.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5
Good addition to my jig collection!!!
Size: 9 Holes
It works great! Would be better if it had a Brad style drill bit instead of the ones that came with it.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2026
★★★★★ 5
Easy to use
Size: 9 Holes
Very easy to use and setup.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2026