Logic leaves us no choice. In that sense, math always involves both invention and discovery: we invent the concepts but discover their consequences. … in mathematics our freedom lies in the questions we ask – and in how we pursue them – but not in the answers awaiting us.

Steven Strogatz

Categorized in : Lying Discovery Math

One of the pleasures of looking at the world through mathematical eyes is that you can see certain patterns that would otherwise be hidden.

Steven Strogatz

patterns eye world

In mathematics, our freedom lies in the questions we ask — and in how we pursue them — but not in the answers awaiting us.

Steven Strogatz

mathematics answers lying

Change is most sluggish at the extremes precisely because the der... by Steven Strogatz

Change is most sluggish at the extremes precisely because the derivative is zero there.

Steven Strogatz

extremes derivatives zero

The frequencies of the notes in a scale—do, re, mi, fa, sol, la, ti, do—sound to us like they’re rising in equal steps. But objectively their vibrational frequencies are rising by equal multiples. We perceive pitch logarithmically.

Steven Strogatz

rising sound steps

When you love a problem, its contours, obstacles and resistances... by Steven Strogatz

When you love a problem, its contours, obstacles and resistances are all just part of its character.

Steven Strogatz

obstacles resistance character

When you create something new, you're breaking tradition - which... by Steven Strogatz

When you create something new, you're breaking tradition - which is an act of defiance.

Steven Strogatz

defiance tradition something-new

I loved this smart, funny, big-hearted novel. As hilarious and wise as early Philip Roth, The Mathematician's Shiva will delight and move you.

Steven Strogatz

smart wise moving

Looking at numbers as groups of rocks may seem unusual, but actually it's as old as math itself. The word "calculate" reflects that legacy - it comes from the Latin word calculus, meaning a pebble used for counting. To enjoy working with numbers you don't have to be Einstein (German for "one stone"), but it might help to have rocks in your head.

Steven Strogatz

rocks latin math

You can get a certain amount of pleasure as a mathematical spectator, reading and watching some of the most beautiful arguments that have been created in the history of humanity. But that's too passive.

Steven Strogatz

you humanity beautiful history