Legacy of Richard Wesley Hamming

COMMENTS ABOUT THIS BOOK AND RICHARD WESLEY HAMMING

"The research reported in this book is extensive, the organization is effective, and the narrative is enjoyable to read. Very few researchers or professors have such a complete biography, which is a fitting tribute to this distinguished scholar."

 - Hersch Loomis, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the Naval Postgraduate School.

"As is true of very intelligent men, Hamming was able to explain the most difficult problem in simple terms to me, the person in the room with the non-scientific mind. I'm sure you have heard the saying, ‘Little men discuss people, ordinary men discuss events, great men discuss ideas.” Dick discussed ideas." 

- Shirley Loomis, a longtime friend.

"Dick Hamming was a true original. He often said that he was just an ordinary person, but one who thought all the time about his life and how to make the most of it. And that he did.”

- Brian Kernighan, a co-worker at AT&T Bell Labs and a 

Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Princeton University.

"Richard Wesley Hamming was one of the twentieth century's great thinkers. He paid attention. Early in life, he decided that the best way to make great contributions was to pay attention to great contributors and learn from their examples. By studying the actions of immensely talented scientists and engineers, he observed patterns that led to successful accomplishments. Anecdotes relay his insights, perhaps best summed up by his favorite saying from Louis Pasteur: 'Luck favors the prepared mind.' Hamming's lessons and encouragement deserve study by every aspiring scientist and engineer looking to broaden human knowledge, thereby making the world better, through their research."

- Donald Brutzman, a professor at NPS and former student.

"Richard Wesley Hamming: Man, Mathematician and Mentor is an exceptional tribute biography of an influential American mathematician known for his work in computer engineering and telecommunications. The result of exhaustive research, this book interweaves stories, photographs, video footage, and interviews that give insight into Hamming’s life experiences and accomplishments from those whom he enabled. Martin Mandelberg, the biographer, presents a comprehensive chronology with narratives that cause us to reflect on those who have influenced us and those we, in turn, might influence. This story and its timeless lessons deserve reading by those looking to improve the world".

- From the Publisher.