A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume II

Name: A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume II
Author: Augustus De Morgan

This collection of essays and sketches scrutinizes mathematical oddities and philosophical paradoxes with a mix of historical anecdote, logical exposition, and dry humor. It critiques speculative and pseudo-mathematical claims, examines controversies in astronomy and geometry, and uses episodes involving celebrated scientists to illustrate distinctions between hypothesis, evidence, and dogma. Interwoven reflections address probability, religious scepticism, and the social authority of learned opinion, while close readings of pamphlets and lectures expose rhetorical tricks and errors. The overall aim is to defend clear reasoning and scientific rigor against pretension, fallacy, and popular misconceptions.

By Augustus De Morgan

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About the Author

Augustus De Morgan

Augustus De Morgan was a British mathematician and logician, renowned for his contributions to the fields of mathematics and logic in the 19th century. He is best known for his work 'A Budget of Paradoxes,' which explores various mathematical curiosities and paradoxes, showcasing his unique approach to mathematical thought. De Morgan also made significant advancements in the study of logic, particularly through his book 'First Notions of Logic,' which serves as a foundational text for understanding logical principles. His influence extends to the development of modern mathematical logic and the formalization of logical notation.