Topics in Modern Mathematics

3 credits

A survey of modern mathematics, examining the objectives of mathematical advancement, important modern results in mathematics, mathematicians of the modern era, and the influences of modern mathematics on contemporary science. The focus of this course will be on mathematics after Gauss (post 1850). The emphasis will be on general modern approaches to mathematical problems and the philosophy of mathematics, rather than specific results. Topics will include (but are not limited to): the nature of mathematical knowledge, origins of modern mathematics, biographies of mathematicians and the influence of mathematics on contemporary science. ***Prerequisite: MATH 111, 122 and 221.*** *Note: This course is designed for majors in mathematics or mathematics education with a solid background in mathematics. It will be offered in the winter semester, alternating with MATH 308.*