Author
Augustus De Morgan
1806-1871
Augustus De Morgan (1806-1871) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Augustus De Morgan
A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume I
"A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume I" by Augustus De Morgan is a collection of discursive writings that explores various scientific and philosophical paradoxes, likely written in the late 19th century. The text appears to engage with the inconsistencies and contradictions found within established scientific doctrines while also providing a critique of unsubstantiated claims made by self-proclaimed discoverers. This approach reflects De Morgan's intent to illuminate the nature of knowledge and the pitfalls of ignorance within the sphere of scientific inquiry. The opening of the work sets a thoughtful tone, as De Morgan introduces the concept of paradox by using a hypothetical scenario involving a fly and an elephant to illustrate how conflicting claims can arise in intellectual discourse. He emphasizes the contrast between isolated thinkers and organized movements in science, suggesting that dissenting ideas become more credible when they enjoy collective support rather than being the whim of a single individual. De Morgan proposes to examine claims made by various "paradoxers," drawing on his extensive personal experience with individuals who have confidently asserted their discoveries, despite a lack of formal knowledge or understanding. The beginning invites readers into a deeper examination of the relationship between established scientific knowledge and the often contradictory voices that challenge it.
A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume II
"A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume II" by Augustus De Morgan is a philosophical and mathematical treatise written in the mid-19th century. This volume continues to explore and critique various paradoxes and fallacies found in mathematical reasoning and philosophical arguments, particularly focusing on the works and thoughts of notable figures such as Laplace and Euler. De Morgan presents a unique combination of humor and rigorous analysis, discussing topics ranging from atheism in philosophy to the intricacies of astronomical theories. The opening of the volume discusses philosophical atheism, utilizing anecdotes about prominent historical figures like Laplace and Euler to illustrate the tensions between belief and reason. De Morgan provides insightful commentary on the nature of gods as hypotheses in philosophical discourse and critiques the approaches of modern paradoxers who challenge established scientific understanding. Through humorous storytelling, he presents critiques of absurd mathematical arguments, engaging readers with questions that challenge both their logical reasoning and understanding of science and belief.
Elements of arithmetic
"Elements of Arithmetic" by Augustus De Morgan is a mathematical textbook written in the mid-19th century. The work serves as a foundational guide to arithmetic, focusing on principles and reasoning rather than rote calculations, making it suitable for both students and educators. The text aims to establish a solid understanding of arithmetic concepts, laying out the basic operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, while emphasizing the importance of reasoning in mathematics. The opening of the book includes a preface that outlines De Morgan's intent, stating that this edition contains significant appendixes aimed at aiding advanced students. It discusses the importance of teaching arithmetic through reasoning rather than mere routine and highlights the need for a rational approach to mathematics. Following the preface, the first section introduces numeration, illustrating how different counting methods were used throughout history with examples of simple counting techniques and their evolution into more complex systems, ultimately leading into structured numeral systems. This thoughtful approach sets a clear foundation for understanding arithmetic principles.
First notions of logic (preparatory to the study of geometry)
"First notions of logic (preparatory to the study of geometry)" by Augustus De Morgan is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. The book serves as an introductory text to logical reasoning, particularly in the context of preparing students for the study of geometry, emphasizing the importance of understanding the process of inference and the construction of valid arguments. In this work, De Morgan explains the fundamental principles of logic, detailing the various types of propositions and their implications for reasoning. He outlines how conclusions can be accurately inferred from given premises and discusses the importance of clear definitions in logical discourse. The text also distinguishes between affirmative and negative propositions, universal and particular statements, and introduces concepts such as syllogisms, contradictions, and the roles of middle terms in arguments. Through examples and structured reasoning, De Morgan aims to equip students with the essential tools for logical analysis, paving the way for deeper exploration into mathematics and geometry.