The discussion centers on the merits of Harold Jacobs' Geometry first edition (1974) compared to later editions. A key contributor, mathwonk, a professional mathematician, expresses a strong preference for the first edition, highlighting its engaging discussions of proofs, logic, and the inclusion of humorous elements that were diminished in the third edition. The removal of witty cartoons and the overall "watering down" of content in later editions are noted as significant drawbacks. The first edition is recommended for its rigor and enjoyment, particularly for younger learners.
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Tobias Funke said:From when I was thinking about a geometry book to get, I thought I remembered another member, mathwonk, mentioned that he likes the first edition. Googling "jacobs geometry mathwonk" led right to his quote:
"i looked in vain for the promised review of these books. I am a longtime fan of harold jacobs' book, first edition, which my 8 year old enjoyed, and was saddened by the watering down of the 3rd edition, rendering it less fun and less rigorous at the same time!
that is hard to do, but they not only took out much of the wonderful discussion of proofs and logic, enlivened by hilarious rhymes and puzzles from lewis carroll, but also removed many of the witty cartoons, replacing them with unfunny ones, as if not only logic but also cleverness were evil somehow in learning geometry."
No mention of the second edition, but mathwonk is a professional mathematician--I think a geometer even--so if he likes the first edition I'm sure it's good. He seems to prefer the earlier editions of most books, actually.