The Importance of Mathematics in Society: Why We Cannot Do Without It
The role of mathematics in the development of society (essay)
Mathematics is an essential aspect of modern society, playing a critical role in numerous fields such as engineering, medicine, finance, and technology. Without the use of math, society would not have been able to make the significant advancements that it has today. To prove importance of mathematics in society, this essay emphasizes how math has become the backbone of modern society, and its understanding and practice are essential to our growth and development. David Kollosche's argument for a deeper appreciation of mathematics is supported by numerous examples of the ways math is used in our daily lives, and the framework he outlines for utilizing mathematical concepts in society is critical to ensuring that we continue to progress in the future.
In his article, Kollosche highlights the correlation between mathematics and our society, giving a closer look on how they complement each other. Kolloche’s article,” Social functions of mathematics education: a framework for socio-political studies,” effectively argues the role of mathematics being “a social tool of power” for society through the structure and organization of his article. In addition, the tone throughout the article is very informative and empowering to drive society towards innovative ideas. Lastly, the use of appeals persuades the audience towards his argument by referring to research and highly accredited mathematicians. Overall, David Kollosche delivers a strong claim though the use of more than a few rhetorical devices.
At first glance, the article is well arranged, and each passage flows perfectly from sentence to sentence. In several instances, Kollosche leads into his point by first providing background information on the topic. An example of this is, as stated,” In order to present a theory of social functions of mathematics education as a theoretical framework, it proves useful to first discuss the theory of functionalism…” which demonstrates Kollosche constructing his ideas to transition smoothly, allowing his readers to understand his argument.
Later in his article, we arrive at a point where he uses jargon to support his points. However, before he begins to address them, he provides simple definitions such as, “Qualification signifies the function of school to teach knowledge and skills that are useful in future private and occupational situations…,” that offers knowledge to the reader by giving them the opportunities to develop their own ideas for the following sections.
The structure behind any writing outlines the argument and keeps the ideas concise. As a result, these qualities make his article rich and strong, making it easier to introduce his argument and understand what is being discussed. Significantly, the tone that best represents his article is informative. With all the information he drives through, he forms the paper to sound well written to the best level of any writer. Additionally, his tone creates an atmosphere of learning. For example, listen to his words in the statement, “Despite these now forgotten or tabooed goals of mathematics education, research has identified other discourses that present mathematics education as functional in preparing students to integrate into today’s society, “you can feel the seriousness and knowledge behind his argument, giving his paper a voice.
The tone in all writing directs the reader along with a sense of what the author was thinking and feeling when he wrote the piece. The words and pace he routinely uses throughout his paper has influenced people to comprehend the situation of mathematics and society. Thus, the tone in his article contributes as a helping hand for readers to rely on. Lastly, his use of appeals added reliable support and influence on his claim. The main appeal used throughout the article was ethos. In his article, he references several important mathematicians with strong academic achievements. In one instance, he sites Thomas Popkewitz, who justifies how society shifting towards mathematics is leading to a mutual beneficial system for both sides, highlighting the opinions of highly educated individuals to support his claim on the importance of mathematics.
Furthermore, he includes research from a variety of journals to increase his evidence and credibility. Such as a study by Florian Keller’s on “the qualification function of schools for the economic system…”. To clarify, the following statement explains the role schools perform in developing young minds to enter society confidently. There are further examples, but the main point is the inclusion of numerous sophisticated ideas and opinions benefit broadening the audience’s prospect. This allows the reader to reflect in new ways and lean towards new concepts.
In the end, David Kollosche provided a persuasive argument on the importance of mathematics for society. He aids in understanding what mathematics prepares for in the lives of students. While several people will never feel the need to find the radius of a sphere in their lives, many more will critically appreciate the knowledge and find use for the formulas later in their careers.
To summarize, Kollosche presents his argument through the structure and organization of his article, along with his informative tone and use of appeals. His argument is unique to pay attention to, otherwise society would be a bore without mathematics to push society past boundaries and new discoveries.
