The Theory of Self-Reproducing Automata (first printing in rare near-fine DJ)

von Neumann, John

Published by University of Illinois Press, Urbana, 1966

About this Item

Univ. of Illinois Press, Urbana, IL. 1966. 388 pages. First edition, first printing. This title illustrates von Neumann's mathematical analysis of the structure of self-replication, which preceded the discovery of the structure of DNA by some twenty years. His creation of the field of cellular automata as a simplified mathematical model of biological systems began in the 1940's. Within these lectures, von Neumann proposed a kinematic self-reproducing automaton and by 1952, he designed an elaborate 2D cellular automaton that would automatically make a copy of its initial configuration of cells. Further, the Von Neumann universal constructor based on the von Neumann cellular automaton is presented while the von Neumann neighborhood, in which each cell in a two-dimensional grid has the four orthogonally adjacent grid cells as neighbors, continues to be used for other cellular automata. As for this specific first printing, it is housed in its original rare DJ. $10.00 price intact on flap, as well as 75s.net. The idea behind the two prices in two different currencies on the DJ flap is so whichever market the book was distributed to, the distributor was to clip the non-applicable price from the flap, leaving only one price. The mere fact that both prices are still present makes this already uncommon DJ that much more rare. Dj shows minimal handling and is in near-fine condition as exterior flaws are limited to shelf-rubbing on one flap fold corner. As for the book, it is bright, tight and clean. Binding and hinges are strong and sound. Olive green cloth is bright and clean, stamped in black titles. Four sharp corners. Book's flaws are limited to faint light foxing along page edges, and Princeton, Summer 1967 written neatly on upper corner of front pastedown, underneath DJ flap. Previous owner's name, or professor's name, is neatly written on rear endpaper corner, along with the words: From Princeton U. Store. Front endpaper has a couple of neatly written, legible, small points of reference, from previous owner. Text has a handful of brackets, or exclamation points in margin. A couple of passages have a neatly written sentence next to it; or a thin, straight underline. All flaws noted. von Neumann, widely hailed as the greatest intellect of modern times, died of cancer, which is believed to be a result of radiation exposure while working on the Manhattan Project. First edition, first printing of von Neumann's classic and elusive title, housed in a rare, near fine DJ. Seller Inventory # 003929

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Theory of Self-Reproducing Automata (...

Publisher: University of Illinois Press, Urbana

Publication Date: 1966

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Very Good

Dust Jacket Condition: Near Fine

Edition: 1st Edition