The mathematical crime that allegedly angered the Greek gods
In short: Learn why uncovering irrational numbers was viewed as a massive violation, leading to rumours that the gods killed the philosopher Hippasus.
This video explores the history and mathematical foundations of irrational numbers. It examines the controversial legacy of the philosopher Hippasus, who reportedly faced divine punishment for proving the existence of numbers that cannot be expressed as simple fractions.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Making sense of irrational numbers - Ganesh Pai
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/ideas-making-sense-of-irrational-numbers-ganesh-pai.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Mathematics · More in Ideas & Philosophy · Latest · A–Z · All topics