Augustin-Louis Cauchy

Mathematics French 1789 – 1857 546 quotes

Rigorized calculus and founded complex analysis

Most quoted

"I am a Christian, that is to say, I believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ, like Bossuet and Pascal, like Corneille and Racine, and like so many other great men who have been illustrious in the sciences and in letters. The more I study nature, the more I am amazed at the works of the Creator. The more I study mathematics, the more I admire the wisdom of God."

"The mean value theorem for derivatives states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval and differentiable on the open interval, then there exists at least one point in the open interval where the derivative of the function is equal to the average rate of change of the function over the interval."

— from Cours d'Analyse de l'École Royale Polytechnique, 1821

"A function is continuous if, for every value of the variable between given limits, the numerical value of the difference between two successive values of the function becomes indefinitely small with the numerical value of the difference between the corresponding values of the variable."

— from Cours d'Analyse, 1821

All quotes by Augustin-Louis Cauchy (546)

I believe in the importance of moral principles in all aspects of life.

Letter to a friend

My family is a great source of strength for me.

Letter to a family member

I am committed to upholding the highest standards of scientific integrity.

Diary entry

The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey.

Private notes

I have always found joy in teaching and sharing my knowledge.

Letter to a student

The universe is a testament to divine order.

Private notes

I strive to be a good example to others.

Diary entry

The advancement of science benefits all of humanity.

Letter to a colleague

I am a man of faith and reason.

Private notes

The pursuit of mathematical rigor is essential for true understanding.

Letter to a student

I believe that every individual has a unique contribution to make.

Diary entry

The beauty of a mathematical proof lies in its irrefutability.

Private notes

I have always sought to live a life of purpose.

Diary entry

The study of mathematics cultivates the mind.

Letter to a friend

I am dedicated to the pursuit of truth, wherever it may lead.

Private notes

My work is a form of worship.

Diary entry

The universe is a grand design.

Private notes

I believe in the power of hard work and perseverance.

Letter to a student

I am a humble servant of science.

Diary entry

I am a Catholic, and I have never blushed for my faith.

Various biographical accounts