Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea

This is a book about the concept of zero throughout the ages - from pre-historic times when counting began (but zero was not needed) to the present. The notion and evolution of zero, as well as the many problems that it caused, are presented from several angles – religion, philosophy, mathematics and physics. The author does an excellent job of retaining his focus on zero while covering millennia of human history and mathematical thought. The writing style is clear, engaging, lively, friendly, often witty and occasionally humorous. This book can be enjoyed by any dedicated general reader, although the math phobic may feel uncomfortable through good parts of it. Science buffs, on the other hand, will likely have been exposed to much of the mathematics and science discussed here, but the fascinating historical aspects alone make it very much worth the read for them as well.

Zero is edgy - who knew? Judging a book by its title may not always be the best way to find a great read, but it definitely worked here. I will be reading this book over and over, for the ideas, the writing, and the fact that zero is now my new favorite number.

This was such a facinating book. Even those that don't like math and prefer history would truly enjoy this book. The bold statements and the body of the book is just amazing. A must read and certainly a book every one should have on their shelf.

I was enthralled with Zero, Charles Siefe pulls the history of the concept of the infinite and the void together very nicely. Those that have some mathematical background have an advantage but Zero is, for the most part, readable on all levels. Wonderful!