Tobias Dantzig

1884–1956

German-Russian mathematician

The mathematician may be compared to a designer of garments, who is utterly oblivious of the creatures whom his garments may fit. To be sure, his art originated in the necessity for clothing such creatures, but this was long ago; to this day a shape will occasionally appear which will fit into the garment as if the garment had been made for it. Then there is no end of surprise and delight!

TOPICS: philosophy, humor

Mathematics is the supreme arbiter. From its decisions there is no appeal.

TOPICS: philosophy