“The theory of numbers is particularly liable to the accusation that some of its problems are the wrong sort of questions to ask. I do not myself think the danger is serious; either a reasonable amount of concentration leads to new ideas or methods of obvious interest, or else one just leaves the problem alone. "Perfect numbers" certainly never did any good, but then they never did any particular harm.”
Quote by John Edensor Littlewood
Work
Littlewood's Miscellany
Littlewood's Miscellany is a compilation of various mathematical pieces and personal anecdotes written by the renowned mathematician John Edensor Littlewood. The book offers a glimpse into the mind of a brilliant mathematician, showcasing his insights and experiences in the field of mathematics. more
Author
John Edensor Littlewood
John Edensor Littlewood was an outstanding British mathematician known for his contributions to number theory, analysis, and probability theory. His research spanned a wide range of areas including group theory in number theory, number-theoretic functions, and limit theorems in probability theory. more
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