The Universe in Zero Words

The progress of humanity has often rested on proof, a law or a simple equation . It is literally a language without words, yet one that crosses cultures and spans centuries.

Equations are the lifeblood of modern science and mathematics. Yet outside the realm s of science and mathematics the rest of the world does not fluently speak the l anguage of equations, and a cultural gap has emerged . The Universe in Zero Words is Dana Mackenzie’s assured attempt to build a bridge across that chasm.

Spann ing 4,000 years of civilization from 1+1 to chaos theory, it tells the story of mathematics through the people who drove its progress. Motivated by the search for beauty and by sheer curiosity, these are tales of genius and drama brought vividly to life in a compelling narrative. With its combination of historical narrative, mathematical exploration and practical application, The Universe in Zero Words will appeal to anyone who has ever wanted to understand how mathematics shape s our world.