"[Kline] is unfalteringly clear in explaining mathematical ideas; he is learned but not pedantic; he has historical discernment, a sympathetic social outlook and a nice sense of fun and irony.... The beauty and fascination and rare excellence of mathematics emerge from his story. It is an exciting, provocative book. - Scientific American"Still the best textbook for the history and philosophy of mathematics for undergraduate liberal arts students. Especially good for the age of the Scientific Revulution. - Janet A. Fitzgerald, Molloy College, NYProduct DescriptionThis book gives a remarkably fine account of the influences mathematics has exerted on the development of philosophy, the physical sciences, religion, and the arts in Western life.