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Discrete Mathematical Structures

Chapter 4 Counting

When angry count to ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred.
―Thomas Jefferson (1743--1826)
We learn to count at a young age. It is something that is fundamental and basic. There is archaeological evidence suggesting humans have been counting for over 50000 years. In this chapter, we define precisely what it means to count something. Then we develop advanced counting techniques and look at some of the implications.