In 1725 Colin McLaurin (1698-1746) was appointed Professor of Mathematics at Edinburgh on Newton's recommendation. He taught Newton's calculus, but explained it from a geometric point of view rather than the analytical one used in England and on the Continent. This enabled him and, coupled with the continued use of Euclidian geometry in teaching mathematics, many others in Scotland who followed him, to put mathematics to practical use. In this 'Memorial to the Customs' McLaurin's subject is eminently practical. It is how to calculate the contents of irregular barrels for the purpose of exacting duty on wine and spirits.
work_description
In 1725 Colin McLaurin (1698-1746) was appointed Professor of Mathematics at Edinburgh on Newton's recommendation. He taught Newton's calculus, but explained it from a geometric point of view rather than the analytical one used in England and on the Continent. This enabled him and, coupled with the continued use of Euclidian geometry in teaching mathematics, many others in Scotland who followed him, to put mathematics to practical use. In this 'Memorial to the Customs' McLaurin's subject is eminently practical. It is how to calculate the contents of irregular barrels for the purpose of exacting duty on wine and spirits.
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