A Global History of Mathematics

Catalog description

This unique interdisciplinary course, which fulfills both the Math and STS Core Curriculum requirements, interrogates the persistent notion that mathematics is fundamentally Western, by exploring the invention and evolution of foundational mathematical concepts within their historical and cultural contexts throughout the world. Using hands-on activities to explore historical mathematical challenges, students develop their problem-solving skills, and apply them to practical and theoretical questions. For example, how did earlier societies use sticks, stones, or strings with knots to record numerical data and make advanced calculations long before modern calculators and computers? An underlying theme is that numbers, mathematics, and computational methods do not simply exist, but are highly related to the cultures in which they were produced, and the accompanying historical circumstances. We conclude the course by considering the global future of mathematics, and whether it is capable of becoming increasingly diverse. Prerequisite: None. Fulfillment: CORE STS or Math requirement; Humanities Introductory course.