Readings 17, 18
Reading 17
Key words:
Patterns: Stewart states that we live in a universe of patterns. Through mathematics, we (humans) are able to exploit patterns for our own use. One of the keys are understanding which patterns are meaningful, and researching why.
Observation; He also argues that the key to unlocking patterns is through observing, although this must be combined with mathematics to realize its useful potential.
Discussion Questions:
Does this knowledge of patterns suggest intelligent design, that an all-powerful god created the earth and/or universe?
How can we perfect patterns in our built environment? Are patterns as essential to architecture as they are to nature?
Reading 18
Key words:
Mathematicians: Alder discusses the abilities and limitations of mathematicians. he presents mathematicians as extremely focused and brilliant, but at the same time have an extremely narrow range of skills-saying that mathematicians are only good at being mathematicians (and sometimes professors). He says they are terrible at other math-related professions. He also talks about how the mathematician is represented and understood in popular culture.
Purity: He also presents mathematics as the most pure profession/area of inquiry.
Discussion questions:
Do mathematicians represent the anti-architect? To what extent?
Do we still need to cultivate true mathematicians? Does our world work well enough already? Is there an end to mathematics? Is it a wasted life if a mathematician discovers no real advances in his lifetime? Are mathematicians selfish or selfless?
Alder states that, "no mediocre mathematician can teach [math] adequately even at an elementary level." To what extent do you agree with this statement? As teachers, is it important to prepare students to become mathematicians or to become engineers, accountants, and other math related fields? What is more important to society?