Mathematics for Human Flourishing

“Beautifully written, contains well-chosen and interesting mathematical puzzles, and offers an important viewpoint for mathematicians to consider… . The book is aimed at a broader audience and is also a call to being more inclusive, to recognising that there are many paths to success.”—Pamela Gorkin, Mathematical IntelligencerAwarded Book of the Year by Aleo ReviewWinner of the Euler Book Prize, sponsored by the Mathematical Association of AmericaSelected for the 2021 Phi Beta Kappa Award for Science Short List“The ancient Greeks argued that the best life was filled with beauty, truth, justice, play and love. The mathematician Francis Su knows just where to find them.”—Kevin Hartnett, Quanta Magazine   “Please read this beautiful, compelling, galvanizing book if you care about mathematics, social justice, or humanity, which I hope is everyone.”—Eugenia Cheng, author of The Art of Logic in an Illogical World   “The world desperately needs this all‑embracing and deeply human perspective on what mathematics is and why it matters. The key qualities developed by mathematical thinking are characteristics that we should all value and long for.”—Eddie Woo, author of It’s a Numberful World   “I was mesmerized by this unusual, sublime book. Original insights and engaging puzzles made me feel young again, discovering a way to Zen and the Art of Mathematics.”—Nalini Joshi, University of Sydney   “Francis Su believes that math can make us better humans—and he leads by example. Every page is a work of generosity and compassion. Plus, the puzzles will haunt you for weeks.”—Ben Orlin, author of Math with Bad Drawings   “A celebration of mathematics and the human spirit. Learning mathematics enriches our lives, and Su wants everyone to have a seat at the banquet.”—Edward Scheinerman, author ofvThe Mathematics Lover’s Companion   “A delightful mixture of philosophy, mathematical illustrations, and compassion.”—John Cook, Singular Value Consulting   “Francis Su has written a lyrical meditation on the beauty of mathematics and how it connects to our common humanity.”—John Urschel, author of Mind and Matter: A Life in Math and Football   “Su elegantly uncovers the beauty and power of mathematics as they relate to our desires to be loved, trusted, and accepted. A powerful narrative of mathematical beauty, this book is the antidote for a mathematically fixed mindset.”—Talithia Williams, author of Power in Numbers: The Rebel Women of Mathematics   “This is perhaps the most important mathematics book of our time. Francis Su shows mathematics is an experience of the mind and, most important, of the heart.”—James Tanton, Global Math Project“The ancient Greeks argued that the best life was filled with beauty, truth, justice, play and love. The mathematician Francis Su knows just where to find them.”—Kevin Hartnett, Quanta Magazine

Francis Su is the Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College, an award-winning math educator, and the past president of the Mathematical Association of America. His work has been featured in Quanta Magazine, Wired, and the New York Times.