The Discrete Mathematical Charms of Paul Erdos: A Simple Introduction

Paul Erds published more papers during his lifetime than any other mathematician, especially in discrete mathematics. He had a nose for beautiful, simply-stated problems with solutions that have far-reaching consequences across mathematics. This captivating book, written for students, provides an easy-to-understand introduction to discrete mathematics by presenting questions that intrigued Erds, along with his brilliant ways of working toward their answers. It includes young Erds's proof of Bertrand's postulate, the Erds-Szekeres Happy End Theorem, De Bruijn-Erds theorem, Erds-Rado delta-systems, Erds-Ko-Rado theorem, Erds-Stone theorem, the Erds-Rényi-Sós Friendship Theorem, Erds-Rényi random graphs, the Chvátal-Erds theorem on Hamilton cycles, and other results of Erds, as well as results related to his work, such as Ramsey's theorem or Deza's theorem on weak delta-systems. Its appendix covers topics normally missing from introductory courses. Filled with personal anecdotes about Erds, this book offers a behind-the-scenes look at interactions with the legendary collaborator. See more