Skip to product information
Why Prove It Again?: Alternative Proofs in Mathematical Practice (2015)

Why Prove it Again?

$99.99
Shipping calculated at checkout.
  • Authorized Dealer
  • Ships within 1 business day
  • Free 30-Day Returns
  • Secure Checkout via Shopify Payments
Details

"Why Prove it Again?" by John W. Dawson, Jr. is a mathematics book and learning resource focused on Core Mathematics. Best for teachers, students, and readers looking for stronger mathematical understanding.

This monograph considers several well-known mathematical theorems and asks the question, “Why prove it again?” while examining alternative proofs. It explores the different rationales mathematicians may have for pursuing and presenting new proofs of previously established results, as well as how they judge whether two proofs of a given result are different. While a number of books have examined alternative proofs of individual theorems, this is the first that presents comparative case studies of other methods for a variety of different theorems. The author begins by laying out the criteria for distinguishing among proofs and enumerates reasons why new proofs have, for so long, played a prominent role in mathematical practice. He then outlines various purposes that alternative proofs may serve. Each chapter that follows provides a detailed case study of alternative proofs for particular theorems, including the Pythagorean Theorem, the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, Desargues’ Theorem, the Prime Number Theorem, and the proof of the irreducibility of cyclotomic polynomials. Why Prove It Again? will appeal to a broad range of readers, including historians and philosophers of mathematics, students, and practicing mathematicians. Additionally, teachers will find it to be a useful source of alternative methods of presenting material to their students.

Materials + Care

We prioritize quality in selecting the materials for our items, choosing premium fabrics and finishings that ensure durability, comfort, and timeless appeal.

Shipping + Returns

We strive to process and ship all orders in a timely manner, working diligently to ensure that your items are on their way to you as soon as possible.

Best For: Readers interested in the philosophy and methodology of mathematics, particularly those curious about the role and value of alternative proofs.
Focus: Examines the reasons behind proving the same mathematical theorems multiple times and how mathematicians assess the differences between proofs.
Covers: Discusses several well-known theorems and explores various alternative proofs within mathematical practice.
Why It Matters: Provides insight into the motivations and criteria mathematicians use when revisiting established results, contributing to understanding mathematical reasoning and proof evaluation.

"Why Prove it Again?" by John W. Dawson, Jr. is a mathematics book and learning resource focused on Core Mathematics. Best for teachers, students, and readers looking for stronger mathematical understanding.

Topic: Core Mathematics

Author: John W. Dawson, Jr.

Who this is for:

  • Teachers and classroom instructors
  • Students building subject mastery
  • Readers looking for practical learning support

Why this book matters: It stands out as a practical math resource that helps explain concepts, strengthen problem-solving, and support classroom or independent learning.

This monograph considers several well-known mathematical theorems and asks the question, “Why prove it again?” while examining alternative proofs. It explores the different rationales mathematicians may have for pursuing and presenting new proofs of previously established results, as well as how they judge whether two proofs of a given result are different. While a number of books have examined alternative proofs of individual theorems, this is the first that presents comparative case studies of other methods for a variety of different theorems. The author begins by laying out the criteria for distinguishing among proofs and enumerates reasons why new proofs have, for so long, played a prominent role in mathematical practice. He then outlines various purposes that alternative proofs may serve. Each chapter that follows provides a detailed case study of alternative proofs for particular theorems, including the Pythagorean Theorem, the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, Desargues’ Theorem, the Prime Number Theorem, and the proof of the irreducibility of cyclotomic polynomials. Why Prove It Again? will appeal to a broad range of readers, including historians and philosophers of mathematics, students, and practicing mathematicians. Additionally, teachers will find it to be a useful source of alternative methods of presenting material to their students.

AuthorJohn W. Dawson, Jr.
PublisherBirkhäuser
Published2015-07-24
ISBN-139783319173672
BindingHardcover
LanguageEnglish
SubjectsMathematics
TopicCore Mathematics

Format: Hardcover

Language: English

Shop by collection

You might also like...