I Think, Therefore I Laugh
In 'I Think, Therefore I Laugh,' mathematician John Allen Paulos explores the humor that lies within the realm of logic and reasoning. With a witty blend of anecdotes and mathematical insights, he reveals how laughter can stem from the absurdities of everyday situations and flawed reasoning. Paulos challenges readers to embrace the unexpected joy in the complexities of life and the human experience. Through a series of engaging tales, he illustrates the intersection of humor and mathematics in a way that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Prepare to be amused while reflecting on the profound and often funny nature of the world around you.
By John Allen Paulos
Published: 2000
"Humor is not just a distraction from serious thought, but a key to understanding the absurdity of life and the complexity of our own reasoning."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
- Brian Butterworth, author of What Counts: How Every Brain is Hardwired for Math.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from I Think, Therefore I Laugh
About the Author
John Allen Paulos
John Allen Paulos is an esteemed mathematician, author, and professor known for his engaging exploration of the interplay between mathematics and everyday life. His notable works include 'Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences', which highlights the prevalence of mathematical misunderstandings, and 'A Mathematician Reads the Newspaper', where he analyzes the statistical aspects of news stories. Paulos is recognized for his accessible writing style, infusing humor and clarity into complex subjects, making mathematics approachable for a broader audience.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- John Allen Paulos
- Published
- January 2000
- Publisher
- Columbia University Press
- ISBN
- 0231119151
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 196
- Genres
- Social CommentaryNon-FictionEssays
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Essays of Warren Buffett
Lawrence A. Cunningham, Warren E. Buffett
Good Omens
Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett
White
Bret Easton Ellis
Essays After Eighty
Donald Hall
Too Much and Not the Mood
Durga Chew-Bose
The Pleasure of Finding Things Out
Richard P. Feynman
We Learn Nothing
Tim Kreider
Essays of E. B. White
E. B. White
Tonight I'm Someone Else
Chelsea Hodson
The Essays of Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ralph Waldo Emerson
The Government of the Tongue (Classic Reprint)
Changing My Mind
Zadie Smith
From a Native Daughter
Haunani-Kay Trask
Captive Genders
Eric A. Stanley, Nat Smith
Carrie Mae Weems
Carrie Mae Weems
James Baldwin: Collected Essays (LOA #98)
James Baldwin
Cultural Amnesia
Clive James
The Complete Essays
Michel de Montaigne
The White Album
Joan Didion
Trick Mirror
Jia Tolentino
The Source of Self-Regard
Toni Morrison
Feel Free
Zadie Smith
Essays in Persuasion
John Maynard Keynes
Gratitude
Oliver Sacks
Both Flesh and Not
David Foster Wallace
A Collection of Essays
George Orwell
Orwell: Essays
George Orwell
Notes from No Man's Land
Eula Biss
White Girls
Hilton Als
Cruel Shoes
Steve Martin
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Chris Dixon's Book Recommendations
Chris Dixon is a notable venture capitalist and technology entrepreneur, best known for his influential role as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, where he leads investments in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Before joining the firm, Dixon co-founded two startups: SiteAdvisor, a web security company acquired by McAfee, and Hunch, a recommendation engine acquired by eBay. In addition to his investment career, Dixon is a prolific writer and thought leader on technology and innovation, contributing insightful essays and articles to various platforms such as his personal blog and Medium. His writings often explore the future of technology, the internet, and the impact of blockchain, making significant contributions to contemporary tech literature. Dixon's work has earned him recognition as a visionary in both the tech and literary worlds.
View Collection
Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Ann Miura-Ko's Book Recommendations
Ann Miura-Ko is a distinguished venture capitalist and co-founding partner at Floodgate, a seed-stage investment firm known for backing transformative tech startups. While not primarily an author in the traditional sense, her thought leadership and influential writings on entrepreneurship and venture capital have shaped industry perspectives. She is a lecturer at Stanford University, where her insights into the intersection of technology and business are highly valued by students and peers alike. Ann is also a founding member of All Raise, an organization dedicated to increasing diversity in venture capital and entrepreneurship. Her contributions to literature primarily lie in her impactful essays and articles that guide and inspire the next generation of innovators.
View Collection
Anthony Jeselnik's Book Recommendations
Anthony Jeselnik is an American stand-up comedian, writer, and actor known for his dark, edgy humor and his ability to push boundaries in comedy. Jeselnik’s unique style often involves taboo subjects and a deadpan delivery, which has earned him a reputation as one of the boldest and most controversial comedians working today. He has released several stand-up specials, including Thoughts and Prayers and Fire in the Maternity Ward, and has appeared on shows like Comedy Central Roasts and The Jeselnik Offensive. Jeselnik’s fearless approach to comedy and his willingness to address difficult topics have made him a distinctive voice in the comedy world.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Anthony Bourdain's Book Recommendations
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View Collection
Benedict Evans's Book Recommendations
Benedict Evans is a renowned technology analyst and commentator, acclaimed for his insightful analyses on technology trends and their societal impacts. With a background in venture capital and strategic consulting, Evans has become a prominent voice in the tech community through his thought-provoking essays and presentations. His work often explores the intersection of mobile technology, media, and internet platforms, offering a nuanced understanding of complex tech ecosystems. Evans is widely respected for his ability to distill intricate technological developments into accessible and compelling narratives. His contributions have significantly influenced industry leaders and informed public discourse on the future of technology.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection“Humor is not just a distraction from serious thought, but a key to understanding the absurdity of life and the complexity of our own reasoning.”
I Think, Therefore I Laugh
By John Allen Paulos
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.