The Value of Science: Essential Writings of Henri Poincare

Jules Henri Poincare is considered by many to be the last of the great universalist mathematicians, one who could comprehend and make significant contributions to virtually all branches of mathematics known in his day (the same has been said of Hilbert). Poincare studied at the Ecole Polytechnique, becoming professor of mathematics in 1881. show more Poincare also did important work in mathematical physics and astronomy. Above all, he opened many new fields to mathematicians, especially algebraic topology. He also made singular discoveries in the theory of complex variables (especially his discovery of automorphic functions), differential equations, and celestial mechanics. In addition, Poincare wrote for general audiences, making important contributions to both the philosophy and foundations of mathematics. (Bowker Author Biography) show less