Mathematics for Human Flourishing

Written by:
Francis Su
Narrated by:
David Sadzin

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
4
Narrator
2
Release Date
May 2020
Duration
6 hours 52 minutes
Summary
An inclusive vision of mathematics-its beauty, its humanity, and its power to build virtues that help us all flourish

For mathematician Francis Su, a society without mathematical affection is like a city without concerts, parks, or museums. To miss out on mathematics is to live without experiencing some of humanity's most beautiful ideas.

In this profound book, written for a wide audience but especially for those disenchanted by their past experiences, an award-winning mathematician and educator weaves parables, puzzles, and personal reflections to show how mathematics meets basic human desires-such as for play, beauty, freedom, justice, and love-and cultivates virtues essential for human flourishing. These desires and virtues, and the stories told here, reveal how mathematics is intimately tied to being human. Some lessons emerge from those who have struggled, including philosopher Simone Weil, whose own mathematical contributions were overshadowed by her brother's, and Christopher Jackson, who discovered mathematics as an inmate in a federal prison. Christopher's letters to the author appear throughout the book and show how this intellectual pursuit can-and must-be open to all.
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Anonymous

I listened to this book because it was recommended by a colleague. This is very relevant to those who enjoy Mathematics, but at the same time, feel stupid when doing it. As a Mathematics teacher, I have often felt inadequate. I enjoyed doing the subject in school but only just scraped through. I know this has a lot more to do with my learning barriers rather than my abilities, but that doesn't stop me from feeling stupid. There were parts of this book that made me cry. It explained my feelings so clearly and it was humbling to hear that many people who are I the field of Mathematics (including those with PhDs) still feel like they are not enough and need to prove themselves. I am not alone. This book is easily accessible to all. I would recommend it to anyone who teaches Mathematics, regardless of the age group you teach. Interested parents or those who are reflecting on their experiences within the subject area should also enjoy it.

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