Using Boolean algebra as switching algebra, complex circuits are expressed so that they can be evaluated mathematically.

Boolean algebra makes it possible to use the same kinds of algebraic techniques we use to solve normal equations involving numbers to establish logical relationships.

Mathematical logic, set theory, lattices and universal algebra form an interconnected framework that underpins much of modern mathematics.

But it's Boolean logic, or Boolean algebra, for which he's known today. The concept goes far beyond the and and or operators most of us have learned to use in the "advanced" options of search engines.

And now, Boolean logic is ingrained in almost every computer language. When you use a modern search engine, Boolean logic is used to filter the results to show you only the words you included in ...

Man of thought: Irish mathematician, logician and philosopher, George Boole pioneered modern computing (Image: Getty) And now, Boolean logic is ingrained in almost every computer language.