Geometry in Nature

Quick Look

• A magnificently illustrated book exploring different kinds of patterns and symmetry in the diverse realms of nature
• John Blackwood considers the geometry of minerals, plants, animals and humans
• --This inspiring book is illustrated with over 500 photographs, drawings and diagrams

A magnificent illustrated book exploring the astonishing forms of minerals, plants, animals and humans.

Description

From the simplest observations in nature to detailed measuring of intricate forms, we find geometry everywhere in the world around us.

In this magnificent book, John Blackwood explores different kinds of symmetry in the diverse realms of nature. He considers the fundamental forms of minerals, plants, animals and humans, before going on to look at spirals, vortices, buds and other complex shapes.

Using projective geometry as a basis, he shows how many forms in nature are generated by the same basic geometrical process, but significant disparities lead to the wondrous variety found in our universe.

Fully illustrated with over 500 photographs, drawings and diagrams, this is both a beautiful and inspirational book.

Reviews

'A beautifully illustrated book thematically related to Keith Critchlow's work on the geometry of flowers, but considering a whole range of forms in Nature.'
-- David Lorimer, Scientific and Medical Network Review

'Blackwood's use of colour in the diagramatic artwork helps one vividly grasp how the geometric forms are generated from lines and points. It is a beautiful book.'
-- Archetype

Author

John Blackwood worked in mechanical engineering design for nearly 30 years and was inspired by Lawrence Edwards' work with plant geometry. He became a teacher at the Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School in Sydney, Australia. There he designed a maths course for Classes 11 and 12 which was accepted by the school board of New South Wales. He lives in Sydney. He is the author of Mathematics in Nature, Space and Time (Floris Books, 2011).

Links

John Blackwood has also written a book on maths and geometry in the world around us for use in schools:
Mathematics in Nature, Space and Time