Mathematics and Conjecture: Induction and Analogy in Mathematics (Volume 1): Induction and Analogy in Mathematics

Author: Polya
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-09-01
Features: The book is divided into two volumes; the first volume focuses on induction and analogy in mathematics, while the second volume covers plausible reasoning patterns. This volume is the first one, primarily discussing various examples of plausible reasoning in mathematics. It is suitable for university mathematics students and teachers, secondary school mathematics teachers, mathematicians, and mathematics enthusiasts. This classic work, written by the renowned mathematician G. Polya, explores a reasoning method distinct from rigorous deductive reasoning in natural sciences, particularly mathematics—plausible reasoning (i.e., conjecture). Through many famous ancient conjectures, the book discusses argumentation methods and elaborates on the author's viewpoint: it is essential not only to learn deductive reasoning but also to learn plausible reasoning to enrich scientific thinking and enhance dialectical thinking. The examples in the book cover not only various disciplines of mathematics but also physics. The content is rich, spanning from ancient to modern times, and is vividly presented, revealing the true wonders of mathematics.