Philosophy of Mathematics
When trying to explain mathematics, one is probably unable to whittle down all associations into a two-line dictionary definition. Rather, math has countless branches and infuses itself into many fields, from biology to economics to criminal justice. Specifically, statistics is used to evaluate the significance of drug trial results and the probability of a stock price decline, while graph theory and cryptology aid in understanding the structure of and decoding the correspondence of illegal organizations. Math majors can therefore mold themselves to fit the needs of many diverse employers.
Mathematics equips those dedicated to it with indispensable work and life skills. Pursuing this field is an exercise in repetition, application, and expansion. Mathematicians are exceptional problem-solvers, for instance; they develop recall and analytical skills as they use knowledge learned in past courses to solve problems of ever-increasing complexity and real-life value. Performing endless derivation exercises hones abilities and memory. These algorithms can then be used to study the growth rates of a deadly virus whose population over time is described by an equation with numerous, non-polynomial terms. Furthermore, mathematicians are curious and adaptable; they have chosen to enter a growing field. For example, calculus may be centuries old, but biomathematics has only recently exploded as a valuable sub-topic, and instrumentation has advanced from protractors and compasses to graphing calculators and computer software like Maple and Mathematica. Math majors have the innovative minds that help companies change and improve.
Mathematical thinking also involves organization and persistence. When a student must rework a lengthy problem because she cannot follow her steps or read her handwriting to find an error, she learns to erase completely, label her steps, and, most importantly, accept that she has to begin again. This individual has the patience to one day run dozens of simulations as she attempts to identify the fractal equation that describes the pattern of blood vessels feeding cancerous tissue. She is also training herself to organize her thoughts so that she can communicate her ideas to fellow employees, supervisors, and clients.
Studying math is thus ideal preparation for life beyond formal education. Mathematicians’ critical thinking skills allow them to understand that much of the world can be broken down into different areas of pure or applied
mathematics. They are excited by challenges, and what is more challenging than entering a world of limitless opportunity and competition?
Mathematics equips those dedicated to it with indispensable work and life skills. Pursuing this field is an exercise in repetition, application, and expansion. Mathematicians are exceptional problem-solvers, for instance; they develop recall and analytical skills as they use knowledge learned in past courses to solve problems of ever-increasing complexity and real-life value. Performing endless derivation exercises hones abilities and memory. These algorithms can then be used to study the growth rates of a deadly virus whose population over time is described by an equation with numerous, non-polynomial terms. Furthermore, mathematicians are curious and adaptable; they have chosen to enter a growing field. For example, calculus may be centuries old, but biomathematics has only recently exploded as a valuable sub-topic, and instrumentation has advanced from protractors and compasses to graphing calculators and computer software like Maple and Mathematica. Math majors have the innovative minds that help companies change and improve.
Mathematical thinking also involves organization and persistence. When a student must rework a lengthy problem because she cannot follow her steps or read her handwriting to find an error, she learns to erase completely, label her steps, and, most importantly, accept that she has to begin again. This individual has the patience to one day run dozens of simulations as she attempts to identify the fractal equation that describes the pattern of blood vessels feeding cancerous tissue. She is also training herself to organize her thoughts so that she can communicate her ideas to fellow employees, supervisors, and clients.
Studying math is thus ideal preparation for life beyond formal education. Mathematicians’ critical thinking skills allow them to understand that much of the world can be broken down into different areas of pure or applied
mathematics. They are excited by challenges, and what is more challenging than entering a world of limitless opportunity and competition?