Stanford Emeriti/ae Council Autobiographical Reflections

Donald Knuth: Theory, Practice and Fun

Episode Summary

Donald Knuth, Professor of the Art of Computer Programming, describes how his own experiences as a young student inspired him to become a professor. He speaks about the privilege of connecting with the best students and being part of the world's leading department of Computer Science when that subject was just beginning to take shape. Knuth talks about contributing to a revolution in the printing industry by making computers do new tricks, mentions some of his over 30 books and many papers, as well as his love of music and composing.

Episode Notes

Donald Knuth, Professor of the Art of Computer Programming, describes how his own experiences as a young student inspired him to become a professor. He speaks about the privilege of connecting with the best students and being part of the world's leading department of Computer Science when that subject was just beginning to take shape. Knuth talks about contributing to a revolution in the printing industry by making computers do new tricks, mentions some of his over 30 books and many papers, as well as his love of music and composing.