MTE1501
ASSIGNMENT NO 3
2023
STUDENT NO:
, 3.1 LU1: MATHEMATICS IN SOCIETY
The three views used to outline the consideration of mathematics are:
1. The Utilitarian View
This view sees mathematics as a tool to solve practical problems and achieve real-world
goals such as calculating distances, measuring quantities, understanding finances,
engineering and designing machines, etc.
According to this view, the usefulness of mathematics lies in its ability to solve practical
problems in various fields and applications, such as physics, engineering, finance, and
business.
2. The Aesthetic View
This view sees mathematics as a beautiful and elegant subject that should be
appreciated for its inherent beauty, harmony, and simplicity. Mathematicians who hold
this view are driven by a desire to explore the beauty of mathematics for its own sake,
regardless of any practical or utilitarian applications.
Mathematics, according to this view, is an art form that is aesthetically pleasing and
intellectually stimulating, and can bring joy and satisfaction to those who study it.
3. The Existential View
This view sees mathematics as a symbolic system that can help us understand the nature of
reality, the human condition, and our place in the world. Mathematicians who hold this view
believe that the symbol systems of mathematics can provide insights into the deep structure
of reality, including scientific theories, philosophical concepts, and spiritual ideas.
According to this view, mathematics can help us understand the world around us and
make sense of fundamental questions about life and existence.
ASSIGNMENT NO 3
2023
STUDENT NO:
, 3.1 LU1: MATHEMATICS IN SOCIETY
The three views used to outline the consideration of mathematics are:
1. The Utilitarian View
This view sees mathematics as a tool to solve practical problems and achieve real-world
goals such as calculating distances, measuring quantities, understanding finances,
engineering and designing machines, etc.
According to this view, the usefulness of mathematics lies in its ability to solve practical
problems in various fields and applications, such as physics, engineering, finance, and
business.
2. The Aesthetic View
This view sees mathematics as a beautiful and elegant subject that should be
appreciated for its inherent beauty, harmony, and simplicity. Mathematicians who hold
this view are driven by a desire to explore the beauty of mathematics for its own sake,
regardless of any practical or utilitarian applications.
Mathematics, according to this view, is an art form that is aesthetically pleasing and
intellectually stimulating, and can bring joy and satisfaction to those who study it.
3. The Existential View
This view sees mathematics as a symbolic system that can help us understand the nature of
reality, the human condition, and our place in the world. Mathematicians who hold this view
believe that the symbol systems of mathematics can provide insights into the deep structure
of reality, including scientific theories, philosophical concepts, and spiritual ideas.
According to this view, mathematics can help us understand the world around us and
make sense of fundamental questions about life and existence.
