Leibniz vs. Newton – A Calculus Controversy
The Debate: Who invented the concept of calculus? Newton (left) or Leibniz (right)? Before we discuss the heated debate that spanned hundreds of years, it is important to introduce Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz’s opponent, Isaac Newton. Sir Isaac Newton was born on January 4 th , 1643, in Woolsthorpe, Lincolnshire, England. He is known for his contributions to physics and mathematics who played a significant role in the 17 th century Scientific Revolution. Newtons discoveries include the laws of motion, the theory of gravity, and, of course, the discovery and development of calculus. Although Newton is remembered today as a great thinker of his time, he did not have such a reputation in his day. He is noted to be “fiercely defensive” of his own discoveries and failed to view science as a cooperative and collaborative endeavor. In 1703, he became the president of the Royal Society of London, where he ruled in a tyrannical manner...
