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The Man Who Knew Infinity
464 pages, 2016
In 1913, the Indian clerk Srinivasa Ramanujan sent a letter to the renowned English mathematician G. H Hardy. It contained several formulas that Ramanujan had discovered concerning numbers.
Although Hardy was initially puzzled by Ramanujan's innovative ideas, he soon realized their significance and arranged for the man to visit Cambridge University.
The collaboration between the two men resulted in a series of extraordinary discoveries that revitalized mathematics and changed its course forever.
In 'The Man Who Knew Infinity', Robert Kanigel tells the story of Srinivasa Ramanujan, a self-taught mathematician from India. His passion for mathematics was so strong that it led him to make significant contributions to the field, despite having no formal training. This book shows us that passion can drive us to achieve great things, even when the odds are stacked against us.
Ramanujan faced numerous challenges and rejections in his life, but he never gave up. He kept working on his research, and his perseverance eventually paid off. This book encourages us to keep going, even when things get tough. It's a great reminder that success often comes to those who refuse to quit.
Kanigel's book also explores the relationship between Ramanujan and his mentor, G.H. Hardy. This relationship played a crucial role in Ramanujan's development as a mathematician. It's a reminder of how important it is to find mentors who can guide us and help us grow in our careers.
Ramanujan's journey from India to England brought him face-to-face with a completely different culture. The book shows how he navigated these cultural differences and how they impacted his life and work. It's a fascinating look into the challenges and rewards of cross-cultural experiences.
Throughout 'The Man Who Knew Infinity', Kanigel highlights the beauty and elegance of mathematics. He shows how Ramanujan saw beauty in numbers and used this to create groundbreaking mathematical theories. Even if you're not a math enthusiast, this book might just make you see mathematics in a new light.
Quotes 5
The Man Who Knew Infinity is a profound and moving story that captures the essence of a man's genius and humanity. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of mathematics.
Andrew Wiles - Fermat's Last TheoremRobert Kanigel's book is a captivating exploration of the life and work of a mathematical genius. It's a compelling read that brings to life the man behind the mathematics.
Marcus du Sautoy - Mathematics PopularizerThe Man Who Knew Infinity is a beautifully written biography that paints a vivid picture of Ramanujan's life and work. It's a book that will inspire and enlighten.
Simon Singh - Science AuthorKanigel's book is a masterful account of Ramanujan's life and work. It's a book that will captivate anyone with an interest in mathematics or the history of science.
Ian Stewart - Mathematics WriterThe Man Who Knew Infinity is a fascinating and deeply moving account of a man's extraordinary life and work. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
Dara Ó Briain - Comedian, PresenterRecommendations
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