Victor Katz, University of District of Columbia, retired
The Philadelphia Area Seminar on History of Mathematics
Time: 6:00 p. m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Saint Augustine Center Room 300, Villanova University
Description:
We begin with conversation and a light supper (donation: $10.00). When the discussion lags, about 6:30 to 6:45, Victor Katz, University of District of Columbia, retired (author of “A History of Mathematics, An Introduction”, will speak on:
"Recreational Problems in Medieval Mathematics"
Abstract: Recreational problems have been a fixture in mathematics problem solving from antiquity. It has long been known that the same problems reappear in cultures all over the world – from ancient Egypt and Babylonia through Greece, medieval China and India, and on into medieval Europe and the Renaissance, as well as into modern times. What is surprising, perhaps, is that often the exact same problems reappear, even with the same numerical values, in cultures separated by many years and many miles. We frequently have no idea of the paths these problems took in moving from civilization to civilization. In this talk, we will look at some appearances of two of these classic recreational problem types and see how different people at different times solved them. Perhaps we can also gain some insight into the methods of travel of these problems.
Directions: Villanova University is located on route 30, Lancaster Avenue, just east of I-476. If you drive to the meeting, enter Villanova by the main gate on Ithan Avenue, just north of Lancaster Avenue (route 30), opposite the Pavilion. Tell the guard you are attending the History of Mathematics Seminar. Ask for directions either to the Mendel Lot, where there is limited parking around the greenhouse, or to the St. Augustine lot. From the Mendel Lot, pass under the arch of Mendel Hall and turn left, follow the sidewalk with Mendel Hall on your left. The next building on your left is the Saint Augustine Center. Enter the building, proceed to the rear and take the elevator to the third floor. Exit to the right, then turn left; Room 300 is directly on the opposite side of the building. From the St. Augustine Lot enter the Center via the doorway at the end of the lot. Turn right and follow the hallway to the elevators; take the elevator to the third floor. Follow the directions to Room 300 as above. You can get in touch with me (Alan Gluchoff) at 610-905-1376 if you need help.
Public transportation: Take SEPTA's Paoli - Thorndale train to the Villanova station. If outbound from center city go down through the tunnel to the inbound side. From the inbound platform a few steps lead to the Mendel parking lot. Proceed as above to Saint Augustine 300.