Mathematics and Plausible Reasoning, Volume 1: Induction and Analogy in Mathematics

Mathematics and Plausible Reasoning #1

by George Pólya

Here the author of How to Solve It explains how to become a "good guesser." Marked by G. Polya's simple, energetic prose and use of clever examples from a wide range of human activities, this two-volume work explores techniques of guessing, inductive reasoning, and reasoning by analogy, and the role they play in the most rigorous of deductive disciplines.

Genres: Mathematics, Science, Nonfiction, Logic, Philosophy, Computer Science

296 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1954

Reviews

[Jeff Yoak · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book, but as it got harder, I lost the time that I had for going through it. I should revisit it.

[Dan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not for the general reader (one star). This mostly about induction, mathematical and logical. Useful as an introduction to a limited readership interested in science with a strong leaning toward Mathematics. Valuable mostly in pointing out inductive fallacies. That is worth the third star.

Probably suited best to high school math whizzes and college undergrads majoring or minoring in Mathematics or a closely related field such as Physics.

I have a math degree (48 years ago) and found that the most interesting parts were stuff I already knew, and most of the rest not especially engaging. I did enjoy Euler's discovery of a pattern in the primes, which was new to me. It would seem that has deep implications for group theory, but this was only hinted at and not explored. Also enjoyed some of Archimedes's proofs.

[Alan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great stuff, but a little heavy lifting involved.