Lancelot Hogben’s oeuvre, particularly Mathematics for the Million and its companion volume Science for the Citizen (1938), stands as a testament to his intellectual versatility and his commitment to democratizing scientific knowledge. These works not only represent the zenith of his career but also encapsulate his diverse interests and dedication to making complex subjects accessible to the masses. Originally a zoologist, Hogben ventured into various fields, from physiology and genetics to more unexpected territories such as language with Essential World English (1963) and political reform with Interglossa: A Draft of an Auxiliary for a Democratic World Order (1943).

Central to Hogben’s philosophy was the belief that technical subjects need not be confined to experts but should be rendered intelligible and relevant to the everyday lives of ordinary people. Mathematics for the Million is a prime example of this approach. It was followed by other works that further explored mathematical and scientific concepts, such as books on probability, statistics, and document design, and educational texts for children, including The Wonderful World of Mathematics (1955) and Beginnings and Blunders: Or, Before Science Began (1970).

Hogben's efforts have been met with considerable acclaim. Critics have lauded him for his thoroughness and his exceptional ability to transform intricate ideas into engaging and comprehensible narratives. While some have critiqued the polemical tone present in his writings, such contentiousness did not overshadow the clarity and accessibility of his work. Although Mathematics for the Million was not specifically aimed at younger audiences, its lucid exposition ensures it remains accessible to adolescents, even as it primarily targets a general adult readership.