William Emerson (mathematician)

William Emerson (14 May 1701 – 20 May 1782) was an English mathematician and educator, known for his eccentric personality and his prolific output of mathematical textbooks written in English rather than Latin, making mathematical knowledge more accessible to practical men.

Emerson was born in Hurworth, near Darlington, County Durham, the son of Dudley Emerson, a schoolmaster also with mathematical inclinations. He was largely self-taught, inheriting his father's mathematical books and acquiring a deep understanding of the subject through independent study. Despite opportunities for formal education at Oxford and Cambridge, he preferred a reclusive life in his village, dedicating himself to mathematical pursuits and practical experiments.

Emerson's mathematical work covered a wide range of topics, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, mechanics, optics, astronomy, and navigation. He was a strong proponent of Newtonian physics. His textbooks were highly influential and widely used throughout the 18th century, focusing on clarity and practicality over rigorous proof, reflecting his intention to serve a practical audience. Key works include The Doctrine of Fluxions (1743), Principles of Mechanics (1754), Tracts (1763), Cyclomathesis (1763), and Mathematical Principles of Geography (1770).

Emerson was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1769. He was known for his unconventional lifestyle, often dressing in plain clothing and pursuing his studies outdoors. He was also renowned for his strong opinions and outspoken nature. He remained in Hurworth for the majority of his life, continuing to write and teach until his death in 1782. His contributions to mathematics education helped to popularize the subject and make it more accessible to a wider audience in England.