Reddit meter
Fermat's Enigma: The Epic Quest to Solve the World's Greatest Mathematical Problem
315 pages, 1998
history
999 books
science & nature
1064 booksxn + yn = zn, where n represents 3, 4, 5, ...no solutions have discovered a truly marvelous demonstration of this proposition which this margin is too narrow to contain. With these words, the seventeenth-century French mathematician Pierre de Fermat threw down the gauntlet to future generations. What came to be known as Fermat's Last Theorem looked simple; proving it, however, became the Holy Grail of mathematics, baffling its finest minds for more than 350 years.
In Fermats Enigma--based on the author's award-winning documentary film, which aired on PBSs Nova--Simon Singh tells the astonishingly entertaining story of the pursuit of that grail, and the lives that were devoted to being sacrificed for and saved by it. Here is a mesmerizing tale of heartbreak and mastery that will forever change your feelings about mathematics.
Fermat's Enigma by Simon Singh explores the fascinating world of mathematics through the lens of Fermat's Last Theorem. This theorem, which remained unsolved for over 350 years, has intrigued and challenged mathematicians worldwide. Singh's book gives you a glimpse into this captivating mathematical mystery.
The book takes you on an epic journey of how mathematicians across centuries tried to solve Fermat's Last Theorem. You'll see the dedication, perseverance, and intellectual prowess that went into this quest. It's a testament to the human spirit's relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Simon Singh's Fermat's Enigma also highlights the significant role mathematics plays in our society. From technology to architecture, mathematics is everywhere. By reading this book, you'll gain a new appreciation for this often overlooked field.
Fermat's Enigma isn't just about numbers and equations. It's about the people behind them. Singh introduces us to the brilliant minds who dedicated their lives to solving Fermat's Last Theorem. You'll find their stories both inspiring and humbling.
One of the key takeaways from Fermat's Enigma is the beauty of persistence. The book shows how Andrew Wiles, a British mathematician, spent seven years of his life trying to solve Fermat's Last Theorem. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, nothing is impossible.
Quotes 5
Fermat's Enigma is a captivating narrative that unveils the human side of the quest to solve Fermat's Last Theorem. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of mathematics.
Andrew Wiles - Proving Fermat's TheoremSimon Singh's Fermat's Enigma is a masterful storytelling of a mathematical journey, filled with historical context, human drama, and intellectual challenge.
Marcus du Sautoy - Mathematics ProfessorFermat's Enigma is a compelling narrative that combines the thrill of a detective story with the beauty of mathematical discovery.
Ian Stewart - Mathematics WriterFermat's Enigma is a fascinating tale that reveals the human struggle behind the pursuit of mathematical perfection.
John Conway - Inventive MathematicianFermat's Enigma is a riveting account that takes us deep into the heart of mathematical exploration, revealing its hidden beauty and timeless allure.
Brian Greene - Theoretical Physicist