Algebra based its historical development on a process of abstraction. Nicole Oresme (1323-1382) and Nicolas Chuquet (1445-1488) are considered the first mathematicians to have raised numbers to fractional and negative powers, respectively. To make sense of these fractional and negative exponents, a real leap of imagination took place in the 14th and 15th centuries to initiate the process of abstraction that today's mathematicians take for granted.
Free admission. Prior booking required on the BnF website.
The lecture series is offered in partnership with Pour la Science magazine and Télérama sorties.
Speakers:
- Timothy Gowers, Chair Combinatorics, Collège de France
- Lisa Helweg, Head of Collection Development, Bibliothèque nationale de France
