Strogatz, Infinite Powers

Calculus, the mathematical study of continuous change, underpins some of the most fundamental and miraculous achievements of humankind, from determining the area of a circle to enabling innovations in modern medicine, computing, and space travel. It can also illuminate the patterns of the universe, according to Steven Strogatz. In a Chats in the Stacks talk presented at Mann Library in October 2019, Strogatz discusses his new book, “Infinite Powers: How Calculus Reveals the Secrets of the Universe” (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), which was listed as a New York Times Best Seller this year. The Jacob Gould Schurman Professor of Applied Mathematics and Stephen H. Weiss Presidential Fellow, Strogatz charts the thrilling multi-millennial history of calculus that’s filled with brutal competitions and glorious discoveries.