Geometry in Nature: Exploring the Morphology of the Natural World Through Projective Geometry - Softcover

Blackwood, John

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0863159214 ISBN 13: 9780863159213

Publisher: Floris Books, 2012

Synopsis

From the simplest observations in nature to detailed measuring of intricate forms, we find geometry everywhere in the world around us.

In this magnificent book, John Blackwood explores various kinds of symmetry in diverse realms of nature. He considers the fundamental forms of minerals, plants, animals, and humans, before looking at spirals, vortices, buds, and other complex shapes.

Using projective geometry as a basis, he shows how many forms in nature are generated by the same basic geometrical process, but significant disparities lead to the wondrous variety found in our universe.

Fully illustrated more than five hundred photographs, drawings, and diagrams, this book is both beautiful and inspirational.

About this title

About the Author

John Blackwood worked in mechanical engineering design for nearly thirty years. Inspired by Lawrence Edwards (author of Projective Geometry) and his work with plant geometry, Blackwood became a teacher at the Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School in Sydney, Australia, where he designed a math course for classes 11 and 12. His ideas were adopted by the school board of New South Wales. He lives near Sydney.

Review

'Blackwood helps to unfold nature's intelligent wisdom in this profound and inspiring work.' -- Nexus: New Times magazine 'Blackwood's use of colour in the diagramatic artwork helps one vividly grasp how the geometric forms are generated from lines and points. It is a beautiful book.' -- Science Group of the Anthroposophical Society in Great Britain 'A beautifully illustrated book thematically related to Keith Critchlow's work on the geometry of flowers, but considering a whole range of forms in Nature.' -- David Lorimer, Scientific and Medical Network Review

Edition details

• Publisher: Floris Books
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 0863159214
• ISBN 13: 9780863159213
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 288