Re: [HM] Is Greek mathematics the *real* thing?
Daryn Lehoux (dlehoux@chass.utoronto.ca)
Tue, 3 Nov 1998 09:09:21 -0500 (EST)
> But it could also be true that Greek and modern mathematics are
> the actual 'curiosity'. In fact, for example, the faith in
> axiomatic-deductive procedures can be found in just two
> historical-geographical 'enclaves': in ancient Greek mathematics
> and in the last two centuries of our mathematics.
> Even from Proclus to the XVIII century, nobody really thought useful
> to 'prove' theorems: "rigor is for philosophers, not for mathematicians".
A very good point. And one I think we can too easily lose track of: that
if we look to history for semblances to modernity we will not be getting
anything like the whole picture. It is arrogant to think that what is not
like us is not 'real'.
-Daryn