The mathematical crime that allegedly angered the Greek gods

Making sense of irrational numbers - Ganesh Pai · 4:41 · Video: TED-Ed · Watch at the source

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.

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