Deaths on April 19

Nicholas Saunderson, English mathematician and academic (b. 1682)

Born on January 20, 1682, Nicholas Saunderson's life was a remarkable testament to human resilience and intellectual prowess. Despite facing the profound challenge of losing his sight to smallpox as an infant, this extraordinary English scientist and mathematician carved out an indelible place in the annals of academic history. He is remembered not only for his profound mathematical abilities but also for breaking significant barriers in an era where such disabilities often precluded higher education and professional recognition.

The Lucasian Professorship at Cambridge

Saunderson's most significant academic appointment was the prestigious Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics at Cambridge University. This esteemed chair, a beacon of scientific excellence, has a lineage of occupants that reads like a roll call of intellectual giants. Sir Isaac Newton, the very embodiment of scientific revolution, held this position, as did later luminaries such as Charles Babbage, the pioneer of computing, and the late Stephen Hawking, whose contributions to theoretical physics redefined our understanding of the cosmos. Saunderson's tenure, which began in 1711 and continued until his death on April 19, 1739, was particularly remarkable given his blindness. His appointment was a testament to his exceptional talent and the university's recognition of his singular genius, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to academic merit irrespective of physical limitations.

Overcoming Adversity: Saunderson's Method of Learning and Teaching

Saunderson's ability to not only grasp but also to excel in advanced mathematics without the benefit of sight was truly extraordinary. He developed innovative methods to navigate his field, including a tactile arithmetic board, often referred to as a "palpable arithmetic" or "arithmetic tablet," which allowed him to perform complex calculations by touch. His mental agility was legendary, as he could process intricate mathematical problems and conceptualize geometric forms with astonishing clarity. As a lecturer, he was highly regarded, drawing students from across Europe who were captivated by his clear explanations, deep insights, and unique teaching approaches that often involved his tactile demonstrations. His students admired his ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, proving that physical sight was no prerequisite for intellectual vision.

A Potential Earliest Discoverer of Bayes' Theorem

Beyond his teaching and administrative roles, Saunderson's intellectual contributions may also include a foundational insight into what is now widely known as Bayes' theorem. According to at least one prominent historian of statistics, there is compelling evidence suggesting that Saunderson may have been one of the earliest individuals to conceptualize or even articulate principles closely related to this fundamental theorem of probability. While the theorem is officially credited to Thomas Bayes, whose groundbreaking work was published posthumously, Saunderson's possible prior discovery, though not formally published by him, highlights his advanced statistical thinking and profound grasp of mathematical inference. This potential contribution places him among the pioneers exploring the nascent field of probability, long before these sophisticated concepts became widely formalized and recognized, underscoring his intellectual reach into areas that would later become cornerstones of modern statistics.

Legacy and Impact

Nicholas Saunderson passed away on April 19, 1739, leaving behind a legacy not just of academic achievement but also of immense inspiration. His life story continues to underscore the power of intellect and unwavering determination in the face of profound physical adversity. He stands as a significant figure in the history of science and mathematics, a symbol of human capacity to transcend perceived limitations and achieve greatness, and a testament to the pursuit of knowledge against all odds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Nicholas Saunderson?

Nicholas Saunderson (1682–1739) was a remarkable English scientist and mathematician who became the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge University, despite having lost his sight as an infant. He is recognized for his extraordinary intellectual achievements and innovative teaching methods.

What made Nicholas Saunderson's career remarkable?

Saunderson's career was remarkable because he achieved significant academic distinction, including holding the prestigious Lucasian Professorship, while being blind from infancy. He developed unique tactile methods for mathematics and was highly respected as a lecturer, overcoming profound challenges to excel in his field.

What is the Lucasian Professorship?

The Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics is one of the most distinguished academic chairs at Cambridge University. It has been held by some of history's most renowned scientists, including Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Babbage, and Stephen Hawking. Saunderson's appointment to this chair underscores his exceptional intellectual caliber.

Did Nicholas Saunderson discover Bayes' theorem?

While Bayes' theorem is formally credited to Thomas Bayes, there is a historical claim, supported by at least one historian of statistics, that Nicholas Saunderson may have been among the earliest to conceptualize or articulate principles closely related to it. His potential contribution was not formally published by him, but it suggests his advanced understanding of probability theory.

How did Saunderson manage to teach and excel in mathematics while blind?

Saunderson developed innovative tactile methods, such as a "palpable arithmetic" board, to perform and demonstrate complex mathematical calculations. He possessed an exceptional mental capacity for abstract thought and spatial reasoning, allowing him to visualize and solve problems effectively, and his lectures were highly regarded for their clarity and insight.