Ludic Proof: Greek Mathematics and the Alexandrian Aesthetic

This book is a groundbreaking analysis of a scientific style of writing in the context of contemporary literature, providing a novel way of understanding the notion of a scientific style. It places the Hellenistic mathematical corpus at the center of the discussion of Hellenistic culture and argues that mathematical writings adopt a narrative strategy based on surprise, a compositional form based on a mosaic of unrelated elements, and a carnivalesque profusion of detail.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 271 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This groundbreaking work in the field of science studies takes a novel approach by examining the scientific style of writing in the context of contemporary literature. Its philosophical significance lies in its innovative interpretation of the concept of a scientific style, offering a fresh perspective on the matter. For the first time, the extensive Hellenistic mathematical corpus, one of the most substantial surviving sources from the period, takes center stage in discussing Hellenistic culture as a whole.

In his analysis, Professor Netz argues that Hellenistic mathematical writings adopt a narrative strategy characterized by surprise, a compositional form based on a mosaic of seemingly unrelated elements, and a profusion of intricate detail. He delves deeper into the origins and implications of these stylistic preferences, shedding light on the influence of Hellenistic poetry on the development of scientific writing.

This significant book is a must-read for scholars of Hellenistic civilization, as well as historians of ancient science and Western mathematics. Its groundbreaking insights and comprehensive examination of the scientific style will undoubtedly contribute to our understanding of this fascinating period in history.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009069809