Sangaku Proofs: A Japanese Mathematician at Work (Cornell East Asia Series, 175)

Unger, J. Marshall

ISBN 10: 1939161754 / ISBN 13: 9781939161758

Published by Cornell University - Cornell East Asia Series, 2015

About this Item

Seller Inventory # 9781939161758-2-2

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Sangaku Proofs: A Japanese Mathematician at Work (Cornell East Asia Series, 175)
• Publisher: Cornell University - Cornell East Asia Series
• Publication Date: 2015
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1939161754
• ISBN 13: 9781939161758
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: Very good

About this title

Synopsis

The geometry problems colorfully inscribed on sangaku plaques that survive in shrines and temples throughout Japan have long fascinated those who appreciate the beauty of geometric figures and enjoy challenging puzzles. Aida Yasuaki (1847–1817) was one of the most prolific originators of the wasan tradition that produced them. Instead of presenting and solving problems using modern techniques, Unger presents Aida's own solutions, transcribing his calculations into familiar mathematical notation, highlighting connections between Aida's work and both the mathematics of today and aspects of Japanese cultural history.

About the Author

J. Marshall Unger is Emeritus Professor of Japanese at Ohio State University. His research has focused on the history of Japanese, teaching Japanese as a second language, and writing systems of East Asia. Two of his books, The Fifth Generation Fallacy and Literacy and Script Reform in Occupation Japan, are available in Japanese.