The Equation That Couldn't Be Solved: How Mathematical Genius Discovered the Language of Symmetry — Audiobook
Genius Discovered Language: The Equation That Couldn't Be Solved is an unabridged audiobook by Mario Livio about the history of the quintic equation and the development of group theory. Its narrative approach connects mathematical ideas about symmetry with the lives and work of Abel and Galois, rather than presenting the topic primarily through equations.
At a glance
- Explains the origins of group theory through the story of the equation that resisted a general solution.
- Follows the work and lives of mathematicians Niels Henrik Abel and Évariste Galois.
- Uses symmetry to link mathematical ideas with examples from music, puzzles and physics.
Pros and cons
Pros
- A narrative history offers an accessible route into group theory and the quintic equation.
- The unabridged audio runs for 11 hours and 45 minutes, allowing space for the historical account.
Cons
- Listeners seeking worked equations and detailed calculations may find the treatment too light on mathematical detail.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Format | Audiobook |
|---|---|
| Version | Unabridged |
| Listening length | 11 hours and 45 minutes |
| Language | English |
| Publication date | 8 Oct. 2018 |
| Publisher | Brilliance Audio |
| Author | Mario Livio |
|---|---|
| Narrator | Tom Parks |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Listeners interested in the history of mathematics, symmetry and group theory.
- Readers who prefer a biographical, accessible explanation to a calculation-led text.
Less suited to
- Learners looking for a textbook with detailed equations, derivations or practice problems.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
55% 55% - 4 stars
28% 28% - 3 stars
11% 11% - 2 stars
5% 5% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback describes the book as engaging, well written and approachable when explaining difficult mathematics, with appreciation for its history of polynomial-solving. The overall rating is 4.3 out of 5 from 143 ratings. Mathematics and story receive mixed reactions, including concerns about limited detailed equations and calculations; that matters most to listeners who want a technical treatment rather than a historical narrative.
Positive themes
- Customers praise the accessible language, engaging presentation and coverage of mathematical history.
Negative themes
- Some customers say the book lacks detailed equations and calculations.
Mixed feedback
- Feedback on the mathematics and the story is mixed.
Frequently asked questions
What is this audiobook about?
It recounts the history of attempts to solve the quintic equation and explains how Abel and Galois's work contributed to the origins of group theory.
Is it a mathematical textbook with detailed calculations?
The listing presents it as a popular historical account rather than an equation-led text. Customer feedback also notes that detailed equations and calculations may be limited.
How long is the audiobook, and who narrates it?
The listed listening length is 11 hours and 45 minutes, and the narrator is Tom Parks.
