In the computerized world of today mathematics has had an impact on almost every aspect of our lives, yet most people believe they cannot hope to understand or enjoy the subject. This comprehensive survey sets out to show just how mistaken they are. Substantially revised and updated, this second edition takes into account recent dramatic developments and includes major new sections on Fermat's Last Theorem, knots and topology, and the mathematics of the physical universe. Devlin's choice of material is excellent, and he is to be praised for the clarity and accuracy with which he presents it - Martin Gardner in the New York Review of Books