Numbers and the Making of Us : Counting and the Course of Human Cultures

Numbers and the Making of Us : Counting and the Course of Human Cultures

 
Carved into our past, woven into our present, numbers shape our perceptions of the world and of ourselves much more than we commonly think. Numbers and the Making of Us is a sweeping account of how numbers radically enhanced our species' cognitive capabilities and sparked a revolution in human culture. Caleb Everett brings new insights in psychology, anthropology, primatology, linguistics, and other disciplines to bear in explaining the myriad human behaviors and modes of thought numbers have made possible, from enabling us to conceptualize time in new ways to facilitating the development of writing, agriculture, and other advances of civilization.Number concepts are a human invention'a tool, much like the wheel, developed and refined over millennia. Numbers allow us to grasp quantities precisely, but they are not innate. Recent research confirms that most specific quantities are not perceived in the absence of a number system. In fact, without the use of numbers, we cannot precisely grasp quantities greater than three; our minds can only estimate beyond this surprisingly minuscule limit.Everett examines the various types of numbers that have developed in different societies, showing how most number systems derived from anatomical factors such as the number of fingers on each hand. He details fascinating work with indigenous Amazonians who demonstrate that, unlike language, numbers are not a universal human endowment. Yet without numbers, the world as we know it would not exist. 

Specifications:

  • ISBN : 9780674504431
  • Product Type : Book
  • Format : Hardcover
  • Author : Caleb Everett
  • Language : ENG
  • Country of Publication : US
GTIN: 9780674504431

Shipping Details

Booktopia uses the best quality packing material to protect items for the journey from our Sydney Distribution Centre to our customers, with the intention that they arrive in the same condition they left our Distribution Centre.

Shipping Expectation

Your order will ship within 2 business days

Delivery Instructions

Booktopia uses Australia Post for deliveries throughout Australia. Australia Post will leave the parcel unattended only if it's safe to do so, and take a photo as Proof of Delivery. Please note higher value deliveries may require a signature on receipt.

If there is no-one at home to provide a signature, the delivery person will leave a notification card and you may also receive an email letting you know where your parcel is.

Returns
This policy does not limit the rights you are entitled to under Australian Consumer Law. Booktopia does not accept returns or offer refunds for a change of mind. If you have any concerns about the item you have received then please ensure you contact Booktopia customer care first through your MyDeal account as soon as possible.

Damaged or Faulty Items
Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

If you have received an item that is incorrect, damaged or faulty please contact Booktopia customer Care first through your MyDeal account as soon as possible. Booktopia will require evidence of the issue and may require you to return the item for assessment.

Before returning anything you must contact Booktopia customer care as returns will not be accepted without a Return Authorisation. Booktopia may provide means to return an item at no cost to you or an alternate remedy. If an item is required to be returned (at no cost) it must be packed securely with cardboard or bubble wrap protecting the item, packed to prevent movement inside the package and ensuring the package is firmly enclosed

Refunds
Where a Return Authorisation has been given, a refund via the method used for payment of the order will be provided. Booktopia will contact you if any items are not eligible for a refund.

Refund Guarantee Icon
Shop with peace of mind
All marketplace products are covered by our MyDeal Refund Guarantee Learn More
Sold & shipped by Booktopia
Reference ID: 524030

Reviews (0) Add Review

No reviews yet