Mathematics and Plausible Reasoning, Volume 1: Induction and Analogy in Mathematics
"Polya . . . does a masterful job of showing just how plausible reasoning is used in mathematics. . . . The material in both volumes is fresh and highly original; the presentation is stimulating, informal, and occasionally humorous; examples from science, legal reasoning, and daily life make the arguments clear even to a nonspecialist. Polya's book is a rare event. . . ."--Morris Kline,Scientific American"Professor Polya's beautifully written hook has become a classic. . . ."---A. 0. L. Atkin,The Mathematical Gazette"Professor Polya . . . is interested in problem solving and the psychological aspects of mathematical discovery. . . . [These books] should provide many entertaining hours for anyone who cares to pick up the challenge."--Carl Hammer,Journal of the Franklin Institute"Professor Polya presents a forceful argument for the teaching of intelligent guessing as well as proving. . . . There are also very readable and enjoyable discussions of such concepts as the isoperimetric problem and 'chance, the ever-present rival of conjecture.' "--Bruce E. Meserve,The Mathematics Teacher