777 Mathematical Conversation Starters (Spectrum Series)

777 Mathematical Conversation Starters shows that there are few degrees of separation between mathematics and topics that provoke interesting conversations. The topics presented in this unique book are accessible to mathematicians and non-mathematicians alike. They include thought-provoking conversation starters such as: the value of fame; why language matters; the anatomy of thought; how we know what we know; how the Pythagorean theorem (with very little physics) shows that Einstein was correct about time dilation, and distance contraction; and how mathematics produces intuition-defying examples.

The format is unique too. Topics (conversation starters) are numbered, extensively cross referenced, and divided into small digestible units. Many are illustrated with one-hundred fifty original cartoons and illustrations done by the author.

The book presents material that is of interest to the curious reader who may or may not have advanced mathematical training. Readers at many levels are accommodated. For example, there is material for those who choose to explore special relativity at an elementary level, while those who wish to delve more deeply are provided with detailed equations and explanations.

The book may be used in a conventional linear way or the reader may decide to change direction and follow the cross-referencing. No two people will read the book the same way.

Published for the first time in 777 Mathematical Conversation Starters are original quotes from Joshua Lederberg, Ron Graham, Jay Leno, Martin Gardner, and many others.

Illustrated book showing that there are few degrees of separation between mathematics and topics that provoke interesting conversations.

Science News - Ivars Peterson

"Instructive, amusing, proactive, and insidiously addictive, 777 Mathematical Conversation Starters serves up ample fodder for feeding mathematics into classroom discussions or even cocktail-party chatter."

After training as a commercial artist, John de Phillis earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from Stevens Institute of Technology. His interests in engineering led him to seek a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of California, Berkeley. His research in mathematics and sabbaticals have led him to Italy, England, Norway and Germany. He spent two years in Padua, Italy as Director of the University of California student exchange program. He is currently a private pilot and illustrator in Riverside, California, where he teaches at the University of California.