A handbook of mathematical discourse
Reviewed Steven, G. Krantz, Charles Wells · Choice Reviews Online · 2004
A first-class education consists of learning different modes of discourse. Certainly philosophy, history, biology, engineering, and mathematics have quite distinct and special argots. Learning these different languages causes one to turn ideas over in one’s mind, and that is the purpose of education. Thus it is a welcome breath of fresh air to see A Handbook of Mathematical Discourse by Charles Wells. Mathematical discourse is the heart of how we record our ideas. Our language, and mode of expression, is very special to our culture and our subject. It is well to have a book stating once and for all what we are about. This must be an ambitious project, for the language of mathematics is extensive and diverse. Even to learn all the jargon of a single area (such as algebraic topology) is a considerable challenge. The potential impact for a book such as this is considerable. Most of us do not receive much training in mathematical writing. Perhaps, if one is lucky, one has a thesis advisor who puts one through the paces in the writing of the thesis. But after that one is on one’s own. A book on mathematical discourse could be a touchstone for a young mathematician struggling to