The origin of mathematics: this was the theme of the July special issue of Cahiers de Science & Vie (€6.50). Philippe Testard-Vaillant’s opening article sets the tone: "In ancient societies, the growing influence of mathematics brought considerable advances in technical and scientific knowledge, creating a new order for the world." The agenda is clear: throughout its articles, the issue follows a common thread, showing how profoundly mathematics transformed our understanding of the world and how, across various disciplines, the shift from superstition to a rational approach was invariably shaped by men steeped in mathematics.
The rest of the issue explores the various places where mathematics developed: Egypt, Babylon, Athens and Alexandria. Thales, Pythagoras and Archimedes naturally take center stage. It also examines the famous themes that marked this period: infinity, the number π, Euclid’s fifth postulate… The articles are well researched, making this issue of Cahiers de Science & Vie an excellent introduction to ancient mathematics.
