1657-1757

French mathematician and scientist who was educated by the Jesuits. He produced writings on the philosophy of both mathematics and science. Because he was able to assess the value of work being done by his contemporaries, he provided future scholars with valuable information about the scientists at work during his lifetime. He received numerous honors including a membership in the Royal Society, election to the Académie Française, and the post of permanent secretary to the Académie des Sciences.