In Our Time cover image

In Our Time

Zero

May 13, 2004
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the fascinating history of zero in mathematics. They explore the fear and tension surrounding zero's introduction, its role in financial record-keeping, and its transformative impact on algebra and science. Discover how zero evolved from a placeholder to a crucial number in mathematical systems.
42:08

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Zero revolutionized mathematics by enabling positional notation and complex calculations, despite initial European resistance.
  • Zero's integration into scientific frameworks advanced astronomy and physics, showcasing its crucial role in unlocking deeper scientific truths.

Deep dives

Zero's Evolution: From Samaria to Europe

Zero traces its origins back to the early developments in Samaria, where a clever scribe introduced the concept of nothing as a symbol represented by two wedges on a clay tablet. This notion evolved into zero, crucial for positional notation and the basis for modern mathematics. Despite initial resistance in Europe, zero's importance grew, eventually becoming a fundamental part of mathematics and enabling complex calculations.

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