Martin Gardner

Martin Gardner

Martin Gardner HS Yearbook

All 35 free hexominoes

Martin Gardner (October 21, 1914 – May 22, 2010) was an American mathematician, writer, and philosopher known for his work in recreational mathematics, magic, puzzles, and what he called "philosophical entertainments". His extensive writings, which include books, articles, and columns, have had a significant influence on the popularization of mathematics and on the skepticism movement.

Early Life and Education

Martin Gardner was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1914. He attended the University of Chicago, where he earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy. Although he did not pursue formal education in mathematics, Gardner had a profound interest and natural ability in the subject, which became the cornerstone of his career.

Career

Gardner's career spanned several decades, during which he authored over 100 books and countless articles. He is perhaps best known for his long-running column "Mathematical Games" in Scientific American, which he wrote from 1956 to 1981. Through this column, Gardner introduced readers to concepts such as flexagons, polyominoes, and the Game of Life (a cellular automaton devised by mathematician John Horton Conway).

In addition to his contributions to recreational mathematics, Gardner was a leading figure in the skeptical movement, advocating for critical thinking and scientific skepticism. He was a co-founder of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry (CSI), an organization dedicated to promoting scientific inquiry and debunking pseudoscience and paranormal claims.

Gardner was also an accomplished writer of fiction, particularly of fantasy and science fiction, and a magician with a deep interest in magic tricks and the history of magic.

Legacy

Martin Gardner's work has left an indelible mark on mathematics, education, and skepticism. His ability to engage and entertain while educating has inspired generations of mathematicians, scientists, and critical thinkers. Numerous awards and honors were bestowed upon him, including the prestigious Nebula Award for his contributions to science fiction and the Joint Policy Board for Mathematics Communications Award.

Gardner's influence extends beyond his lifetime, with annual "Gathering for Gardner" conferences celebrating his contributions to mathematics, magic, and skepticism. His extensive body of work continues to be a valuable resource for educators, students, and anyone with a curiosity about the world.

Selected Works

• Fads and Fallacies in the Name of Science (1957)
• The Annotated Alice (1960)
• Gödel, Escher, Bach: An Eternal Golden Braid (Foreword, 1979)
• The Whys of a Philosophical Scrivener (1983)

See Also

• Recreational mathematics
• Skepticism
• Scientific American