A Beautiful Math: John Nash, Game Theory, and the Modern Quest for a Code of Nature

This is one of the nicest popular science reads I have experienced for a long time. The author has the ability to explain science and math in a very clear manner. The book does not only deal with Nash's math, but with all the math and science surrounding game theory. It is an exciting field, and the author is able to explain the limits of the theory and the hopes to understand human nature, and expressing it in mathematical terms. If you are interested in gaining understanding of what game theory is about and current developments and thought in this field, in layman's language, I recommend that you get yourself a copy and read this book.

I first picked up this book because I thought it would be more of a biography of John Nash. The book is more a discussion of how game theory can be used to help understand nature. The book was very readable and even gave me a historic perspective about where this trend is going. Although there is some very limited math in the book, it is very clearly explained. The books is very readable and engaging. After reading this book, I know want to know more about game theory and its predictive capabilities. I would highly recommend this book.

The movie "A Beautiful Mind" was inspiring and touching. But, it really did not explain Nash's contributions to the world in the form of game theory. Now readers have a chance to understand the theory and practice behind this Nobel Prize winning discovery in Tom Siegfried's book, "A Beautiful Math." This thorough, historical, mathematical, and metaphorical description of game theory really helps me to see the implications of Nash's discovery. This work influences psychology, evolutionary biology, sociology, anthropology, statistical physics, quantum physics and more. Its far-reaching implications are brought to life within an eloquent explanation that touches on all branches of science.

If you read or saw "A Beautiful Mind" and think there was drama in John Nash's creative madness, wait until you plunge into the work that drove him. Even without a background in (or any natural talent for) math, this story swept me up completely and, like previous reviewers, I had a hard time putting the book down. Siegfried expertly ushers the reader into the heart of a branch of mathematics that influences everything from pop culture to Nobel-winning science .. and does so in a way that leaves you feeling awed, inspired, and eager for more.

I just read this book, couldn't put it down. Finally, game theory made sense and I understood how it applies in all realms of life and science. This is a fascinating journey!