The Origins of Mathematical Societies and Journals

Author

Eric S. Savage, University of Tennessee - KnoxvilleFollow

Date of Award

5-2010

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Mathematics

Major Professor

William R. Wade

Committee Members

Charles Collins, Philip Schaefer, Mary Sue Younger

Abstract

We investigate the origins of mathematical societies and journals. We argue that the origins of today’s professional societies and journals have their roots in the informal gatherings of mathematicians in 17th century Italy, France, and England. The small gatherings in these nations began as academies and after gaining government recognition and support, they became the ancestors of the professional societies that exist today. We provide a brief background on the influences of the Renaissance and Reformation before discussing the formation of mathematical academies in each country.

Recommended Citation

Savage, Eric S., "The Origins of Mathematical Societies and Journals. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2010.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/658