Cheng sways the readers own personal beliefs about what mathematics is by proposing her own term, category theory, also known as, "the mathematics of mathematics." Confusing right? I thought so too, but in a sense, math can't be defined by one thing. For example, math is not just about numbers, symbols, or even measurements. Rather, Cheng uses category theory to define math as being all about "relationships, contexts, processes, principles, structure, cakes, custards." If that isn't a more enticing Prologue to a book, I don't know what else is. So, naturally, I kept reading...
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A simple question to some, but a vague question to others. To me, there are so many elements that comprise what we call "math" that pages and pages of pages of text couldn't begin to cover all of the topics. However, when we consider this term in the realm of its presence, it is fair to say that math is everywhere. Take a moment to examine things around you: from the chair you may be sitting in, to the open window to the left in your office, to the water bottle on your desk. All around us we see shapes and numbers and if not those in particular, we see things that were made using equations, formulas, and much much more! Math is beyond anything we can every fully wrap our minds around...therefore, math is everywhere. Without math...well, that thought is a little scary, so instead, let's just be thankful we have the beautiful and amazing concept of math. Mathematics is the most beautiful and most powerful creation of the human spirit With that in mind...what have been the greatest "math" moments to date. Through the years, there have been many discoveries that have advanced the realm of math. Examine the list below of what I believe are some of the TOP 5 discoveries in the history of math (not listed in order of importance). (1) Fermat's Last Theorem...having almost every math professor mention this theorem must make it somewhat important. (2) The Creation of Pi...let's be honest we are thankful for the number, as well as the baked good. (3) The Pythagorean Theorem (4) Geometry...referring to the findings around area, volume, and surface area of shapes. (5) Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division...if they weren't important, why did we start learning them in 1st grade? Thank goodness there is no limit on discovery because mathematics is a growing and changing idea that will continue to revolutionize, just as it has in the last 3,000 years.
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AuthorMy name is Abby Niemiec and I am in the midst of my final year as a undergraduate student at Grand Valley State University. I am a double major in Mathematics and Education, with my minor focusing on Elementary Education. Within this blog, I will be sharing mathematical ideas, perspectives, thoughts and much more! Stay tuned...and enjoy the read! Archives
December 2017
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