Title: Embracing Math: The Unchanging Pillar of Knowledge
Written on
Chapter 1: The Certainty of Mathematics
Mathematics has always held a special place in my heart, just slightly below my love for gym class. The reason for this fondness may not seem ideal, but it reflects my reality.
In my educational journey, I found it easier to excel in math because there was no room for arbitrary grading as seen in English or writing courses. In math, the equation 2y + 7 = 27 had a definitive answer; you either solved for 'y' or you didn't. Some teachers attempted to complicate matters by insisting we show our work, but I became adept at demonstrating each step so effectively that they couldn’t challenge my results.
Following math, I developed an interest in science. However, my enthusiasm wavered when it came to the Big Bang Theory, which was often presented as an unquestionable truth, as if there were scientists observing the event in real time. The essence of science lies in observation, notation, and thorough investigation, which I appreciated. My disillusionment began when Pluto was reclassified from a planet, prompting me to declare, “Math is the only exact science.”
Science has faced significant challenges over the years, especially as results from independent studies have sometimes been influenced by those funding the research. In contrast, mathematics remains largely untouched by such corruption. While some statistics can be manipulated, these discrepancies stem more from human error than from any inherent flaws in math itself.
No matter how one approaches it, math remains constant. Whether adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing, the essence of mathematics endures. The correct answer remains unchanged, irrespective of who is solving the problems or, more crucially, who is evaluating the results.
Section 1.1: The Integrity of Mathematical Principles
Mathematics stands as a beacon of clarity. In a world filled with subjective opinions, its principles hold firm, offering certainty where other disciplines often falter.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of Rigor in Math Education
Section 1.2: The Journey Through Scientific Understanding
As I delved deeper into science, my fascination was piqued by the processes of study, experimentation, and discovery. However, the sometimes subjective nature of scientific interpretations kept me anchored in my appreciation for mathematics.
Chapter 2: The Influence of Mathematics in Science
The first video, "Cuneiform Mathematics: A Non-Exact History of an Exact Science" by Carlos Gonçalves, explores the historical context of mathematical practices, shedding light on how ancient civilizations approached mathematical concepts with precision, despite the challenges of their time.
The second video, "Mathematics is the Queen of Sciences," highlights the pivotal role of mathematics in various scientific disciplines and emphasizes its foundational importance in understanding the world around us.
In conclusion, while science may waver under the influence of external factors, mathematics remains a steadfast discipline, reinforcing its position as the only exact science.