Would you like to understand more mathematics? Many people would Perhaps at school you liked mathematics for a while but were then put off because you missed a key idea & kept getting stuck Perhaps you always liked mathematics but gave it up because your main interest was music or languages or science or philosophy Or perhaps you studied mathematics to advanced levels but have now forgotten most of what you once knew Whichever is the case this book is for you It aims to build on what you know revisiting basic ideas with a focus on meaning Each chapter starts with an idea from school mathematics
- often primary school mathematics
- & gradually builds up a network of links to more advanced material It explores fundamental ideas in depth using insights from research in mathematics education & psychology to explain why people often get confused & how to overcome that confusion For nervous readers it will build confidence by clarifying basic ideas For more experienced readers it will highlight new connections to more advanced material Throughout the book explains how mathematicians think & how ordinary people can understand & enjoy mathematical ideas & arguments If you would like to be better informed about the intrinsic elegance of mathematics this engaging guide is the place to start