Abstract

 Blaise Pascal’s two papers on mathematics, Essay on Conic Sections and The generation of conic sections, are considered basic texts in the history of projective geometry. The two essays are not only important from the perspective of the history of science but are also significant from the perspective of Pascal’s subsequent thinking. When Pascal interpreted conic sections projectively, he encountered the problem of the mathematical infinite in several places.
 In projective geometry one needs to presuppose that parallel lines cross each other in the infinite, which is not evident in Euclidean geometry. Also, while generating conic sections projectively, often the picture of a finite form will be infinite, like a parabola or a hyperbola, while they are images of the cone’s base, the circle. Pascal had to handle mathematical paradoxes connected to the infinite at an early age, and he tried to integrate these problems into his work rather than reject them. This attitude to the infinite would characterize his subsequent mathematical and philosophical works.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
