The Nature of

Mathematics
Mathematics in our Modern World
Getting
to
Know
Mathematics
 What is mathematics?

Mathematics, developed by human mind and

culture, is a formal system of thought for
recognizing, classifying, and exploiting
patterns. (Stewart)
The
Nature
of
Mathematics
 study of
patterns

art language

Mathematics
is a/an …..

set of problem- process of

solving tools thinking
 is a Mathematics is a
set of problem solving process of thinking
tools

is a  

language
study of patterns art
  which includes, among
other elements
examples of which can
which are propositions mathematical
can give rise reasoning either be inductive
each have a   to a
   
logic
patterns truth value propositional
can also functions
    be deductive
can be joined  
joined involves
number using a
which can be
 
patterns connective using use of
bit made true or
proofs
    operations false via
quantification
geometric
to form a    
patterns   and there are
compound contingency
which can
  different
can be proposition either be methods of
word shown as   proof
true or false
  universal
patterns can be a
via a  
  contradiction
which is valid if
tautology
based on
truth table
 
rules of
    existential
inference
 
which is invalid 
if based on

fallacy

Nocon and Nocon  

 Where is mathematics?
• in every people’s daily
task or activity
• in nature, arts, music,
medicine, and other
disciplines
• in communities
IT IS EVERYWHERE
 What is mathematics for?
• useful in making conclusions and/or predictions of the
events of the world

• use to describe the natural order and occurrences of the

universe

• use to organize patterns and regularities as well as

irregularities
 What is mathematics for?
• help to control weather, epidemics

• provide tools for calculations

• provide new questions to think about

What is mathematics all about?

numbers, symbols, equations, operations,

functions, calculations, abstractions, devising
proofs
 How is mathematics done?
• with curiosity
• with a penchant for seeking patterns and generalities
• with the desire to know the truth
• with trial and error
• without fear of facing more questions and problems to
solve
 Who uses mathematics?
• mathematicians (pure and applied)

• scientists (natural and social)

• everyone
Why is mathematics important to
know / learn?
• It puts order in disorder.

• It helps us become better persons.

• It helps make a world a better place to live in.

Homework:

Look for Fibonacci numbers in fruits,

vegetables, flowers, or plants available in
your locality. Write a report about your
obtained results.
References:
Stewart, I (1995). Nature’s Numbers. Basic Books
Nocon, R. and Nocon, E. Essential Mathematics for
the Modern World