Alvin Toffler 2020: Elaine J. Hom - Live Science Contributor
Alvin Toffler 2020: Elaine J. Hom - Live Science Contributor
Alvin Toffler 2020: Elaine J. Hom - Live Science Contributor
Mathematics is the science that deals with the logic of shape, quantity and
arrangement. Math is all around us, in everything we do. It is the building block for
everything in our daily lives, including mobile devices, architecture (ancient and
modern), art, money, engineering, and even sports.
Since the beginning of recorded history, mathematic discovery has been at the forefront
of every civilized society, and in use in even the most primitive of cultures. The needs of
math arose based on the wants of society. The more complex a society, the more
complex the mathematical needs. Primitive tribes needed little more than the ability to
count, but also relied on math to calculate the position of the sun and the physics of
hunting.
History of mathematics
Several civilizations — in China, India, Egypt, Central America and Mesopotamia —
contributed to mathematics as we know it today. The Sumerians were the first people to
develop a counting system. Mathematicians developed arithmetic, which includes basic
operations, multiplication, fractions and square roots. The Sumerians’ system passed
through the Akkadian Empire to the Babylonians around 300 B.C. Six hundred years
later, in America, the Mayans developed elaborate calendar systems and were skilled
astronomers. About this time, the concept of zero was developed.
As civilizations developed, mathematicians began to work with geometry, which
computes areas and volumes to make angular measurements and has many practical
applications. Geometry is used in everything from home construction to fashion and
interior design.
Geometry went hand in hand with algebra, invented in the ninth century by a Persian
mathematician, Mohammed ibn-Musa al-Khowarizmi. He also developed quick methods
for multiplying and diving numbers, which are known as algorithms — a corruption of his
name.
Algebra offered civilizations a way to divide inheritances and allocate resources. The
study of algebra meant mathematicians were solving linear equations and systems, as
well as quadratics, and delving into positive and negative solutions. Mathematicians in
ancient times also began to look at number theory. With origins in the construction of
shape, number theory looks at figurate numbers, the characterization of numbers, and
theorems.
August 7, 2020
Dale Stokdyk
Mathematics is the study of quantity, structure, space and change. As abstract as that
may seem, math is, at its core, a quest for absolutes, definitive solutions and answers.
We may think of long numeric chains, seas of fractions or spreadsheets stacked with
figures, but what many don’t realize is that math’s complex equations are, in fact, roads
to simplicity. Believers in better, faster, smarter solutions are often drawn to math.
We need math. Galileo Galilei used it to explain the universe. Math resolves truths and
uncovers errors, and it makes our work more credible. Reports, studies and research
are all but discounted without quantifiable facts. Math equals proof. Math validates.
The importance of a solid mathematics education goes much beyond the current
conversation of improved proficiency on test scores. I have used the word
mathematics very frequently in my education and career but never until recently
thought about the actual meaning of the word.
Mathematics plays a vital role in all aspects of life, whether in everyday matters
such as time tracking, driving, cooking, or jobs such as accounting, finance,
banking, engineering, and software. These functions require a strong
mathematical background, and scientific experiments by scientists need
mathematical techniques. They are a language to describe scientists' work and
achievements.
As for mathematical inventions, they are numerous throughout the ages. Some of
them were tangible, such as counting and measuring devices. Some of them are
not as tangible as methods of thinking and solving. The symbols that express
numbers are also one of the most important mathematical inventions.
Mathematics helps in analytical thinking. While solving math problems, data are
collected, disassembled and then interconnected to solve them.
Mathematics helps to develop the ability to think.
It helps explain how things work.
It helps to develop wisdom.
It increases the speed of intuitive.
It helps to make the child smarter.
Money can be collected in mathematics when used as a profession.
It is important in a constantly evolving world.
It provides the child with an opportunity to get to the world.
Mathematics in Our Everyday Life
Mathematics is the pillar of organized life for the present day. Without numbers
and mathematical evidence, we cannot resolve many issues in our daily lives.
There are times, measurements, rates, wages, tenders, discounts, claims,
supplies, jobs, stocks, contracts, taxes, money exchange, consumption, etc., and
in the absence of these sports data, we have to face confusion and chaos.
Thus, mathematics has become the companion of man and his helper since the
beginning of human existence on earth. When man first wanted to answer
questions such as "How many?" he invented math. Then algebra was invented to
facilitate calculations, measurements, analysis, and engineering.