In order to understand the universe you must know the language in which it is written. And that language is mathematics. - Galileo (1564-1642) For hundreds of thousands of years, we have sought order in the apparent chaos of the universe. Mathematics has been our most valuable tool in that search, uncovering the patterns and rules that govern our world and beyond. How the World Mathematics serves as a brilliant introduction to the history and enigmas of this vast discipline, plotting a journey from innumerate cave-dwellers, through the towering mathematical intellects of the last 4,000 years, to the breakthroughs of today. This book • Accessible explanations of mathematical principles, such as chaos theory and set theory • Profiles of famed and lesser-known mathematicians, including Pythagoras, Descartes and Madhava of Sangamagrama • Quirky facts and anecdotes • A useful glossary of mathematical terms ABOUT THE How the World Works is an illustrated series by Arcturus Publishing. Each book provides an engaging introduction to a branch of human knowledge, outlining key principles and charting its development across history up to the present day.