The Beginner's Guide to Constructing the Universe

Why are cans, pizzas, and manhole covers round? Why does the spiral pattern appear in galaxies, hurricanes, and haircuts? In this engaging exploration of the ways mathematical principles have shaped the world around us, Michael Schneider demonstrates how cathedrals, cucumbers, beehives, and the human body arise from the numbers 1 through 10. From the structure of molecules to the structure of board games, Schneider reveals that the language of geometry informs every level of the universe we inhabit, including the universe of our minds. Why is the number 7 lucky? Why is 6 our standard reference for measuring time? A richly illustrated journey of science and philosophy, A Beginner''s Guide to Constructing the Universe provides readers with a new and utterly compelling view of the world.

About the author

Michael S. Schneider is an educator developing new perceptions of nature, science, art, and mathematics, holding workshops for teachers, artists, architects, and children concerning nature's numerical language. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn and a Master's Degree in Math Education from the University of Florida. He was a Fulbright-Hayes Scholar in India and taught in public schools for eleven years. An education writer and computer consultant, he designed the geometry harmonizing the statues at the entrance to the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, where he lives.

Product details

• Authors: M. Schneider, Michael S. Schneider, Schneider Michael S.
• Publisher: Harper Perennial USA
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 29.09.1995
• EAN: 9780060926717
• ISBN: 978-0-06-092671-7
• No. of pages: 384
• Dimensions: 187 mm x 235 mm x 22 mm
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Natural sciences (general); Non-fiction book > Nature, technology > Natural science; HISTORY: WORLD, HISTORY: 20TH CENTURY AMERICAN, HISTORY: AMERICAN, SCIENCE: Physics / General, HISTORY: MILITARY, MATHEMATICS: History & Philosophy, SCIENCE: Space Science / Astronomy, HISTORY: 21ST CENTURY AMERICAN, MATHEMATICS: General, SCIENCE: Physics / Astrophysics, SCIENCE: Physics / Quantum Theory, MATHEMATICS: Number Systems