On the Influence of Signs in Mathematical Reasoning.
1 p.l., 53 pp. Large 4to, orig. blue wrappers, uncut. London: J. Smith, 1826.
A remarkable association copy of this extremely rare offprint, linking two of the greatest scientists of the 19th century, and pre-figuring Babbage’s later work on his difference and analytical engines. This copy bears the following inscription on the title-page in Babbage’s hand: “To M. Gauss from the Author.” Additionally, Babbage has written on the upper wrapper: “M. Gauss. Influence of Signs. 3. Ch. Babbage. On the influence of signs in mathematical reasoning.”
Babbage here presents his views on the importance of symbolic notation in mathematical reasoning... More