Some general theorems of considerable use in the higher parts of Mathematics

STEWART, MATTHEW

Published by printed by W. Sands, A. Murray, and J. Cochran; sold by W. Sands, and by J. and P. Knapton, 1746

About this Item

FIRST EDITION. 8 vo. Contemp. mottled calf, neatly rebacked with paneled spine. (4), 163, (1) pp. Errata slip mounted on blank verso of preface leaf. Four folding engraved plates. A very good copy. The Scottish mathematician, Matthew Stewart (1717-85; F.R.S., 1764), a student of Robert Simson and Colin Maclaurin, established his reputation ".overnight by the publication of the 'General Theorems'. John Playfair, himself a scientist of distinction, claimed that Stewart's results were 'among the most beautiful, as well as most general propositions known in the whole compass of geometry. The unity which prevails among them is a proof that a single though extensive view guided Mr. Stewart in the discovery of them all'. .Simson's influence is obvious thoughout the work. Several of Stewart's theorems are in fact porisms, although he refrains from calling them by that name." (D.S.B.). Charles Hutton, the 18th century English mathematician, also thought highly of Stewart's treatise. "Including his discussion of the properties of the circle and straight line, treated by transversals and involution." (Sotheran/Zeitlinger, vol.1, no.4601). Stewart succeeded to Maclaurin's chair of mathematics at Edinburgh. F. Cajori, 'Hist. math.', 1919, p.277. W.W.R. Ball, 'Short hist. math.', 1908, p.388. Not in Roller & Goodman.

Seller Inventory # 000369

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Some general theorems of considerable use in the higher parts of Mathematics
• Publisher: printed by W. Sands, A. Murray, and J. Cochran; sold by W. Sands, and by J. and P. Knapton
• Publication Date: 1746
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Very Good