A Comparative View of the Various Institutions for the Assurance of Lives

London: J Mawman, 1826. First edition. Leather. Near Fine. 8.5" by 5.5". None. The first edition of accomplished mathematician Charles Babbage's first written work. This work being the first thorough treatise on actuarial theory. With four leaves of publisher's adverts to the rear for Encyclopaedia Metropolitana (dated January 1826). This work was the first, and most reliable of its time, with regards insurance actuarial tables. It is also Babbage's first substantial published work. Babbage was inspired to write this work due to a lack in statistical science regarding the calculations of insurance businesses. Prior to this publication, Babbage was approached by a life insurance company to provide tables for their business. However, this insurance company was ultimately never formed. This work surveys that field and contains thirteen tables of premiums, equitable experience, mortality statistics and more. These tables were regarded as the most reliable at the time and Babbage intended to provide the wider public with knowledge of this strain of mathematics and make them aware of the lack of science being used by the insurance businesses. The DNB notes this work to be 'at least in part, a work of consumer protection with Babbage self-cast as champion of the expose'. Babbage states to the preface he is 'exposing the disgraceful practices'. 'A Comparative View' quickly became a classic in actuarial theory and is demonstrative of the statistically minded work Babbage continued to pursue throughout his life. The German translation of this work formed the basis for the Life Assurance Bank of Gotha. A fascinating work, written by a noted polymath. Babbage is considered by many to be the 'father of the computer', as he is credited with inventing the first mechanical computer. A very smart copy of this significant scientific work. In a half calf binding with paper covered boards. Externally, very smart with just some minor fading to the spine. Minor chip to the bottom of title page. Small crease to the head of title page at the extremity. Title page is faded slightly. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright and clean. Near Fine