Was Math Discovered or Invented? Examining the Debate

Introduction

Math is an essential part of everyday life, yet it can be difficult to explain exactly what math is. According to a study by the University of Oxford, math is “the science of structure, order, and relation that has evolved from counting, measuring, and describing the shapes of objects” (Oxford, 2017). But what about the origin of math? Was math discovered or invented? This is a question that has been debated for centuries and one that still sparks discussion today.

Historical Overview of Math: How Was Math Discovered or Invented?

In order to answer this question, it is important to examine the history of math and how it has evolved over time. To do this, it is necessary to look at the contributions of ancient civilizations and investigate the origin of math.

Examining Ancient Civilizations and Their Contributions to Math

The earliest known evidence of math dates back to the Mesopotamian civilization, which flourished in the area between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in present-day Iraq. This civilization is credited with developing the first counting system, as well as the concept of zero (Gillings, 1972). The Egyptians are also credited with making significant contributions to the development of math. They developed a hieroglyphic writing system, which allowed them to record their calculations and measurements (Gillings, 1972).

Investigating the Origin of Math: The Discovery or Invention of Math

The debate over whether math was discovered or invented centers around the notion of whether math existed before humans began to use it. Proponents of the discovery theory believe that math has always existed and was merely discovered by humans. Supporters of the invention theory, on the other hand, believe that math is a human construct and was created by humans. This debate has been ongoing for centuries, and there is still no consensus on the origin of math.

Exploring the Debate: Was Math Discovered or Invented?

In order to understand the debate surrounding the origin of math, it is important to examine both sides of the argument. Below are the arguments for each side of the debate.

Arguments for Math Being Discovered

Those who argue that math was discovered point to the fact that math has remained consistent throughout history. Math has not changed significantly since its earliest known origins in ancient civilizations, suggesting that it was discovered rather than invented (Gillings, 1972). Additionally, proponents of the discovery theory argue that math is a universal language, which suggests that it is independent of human influence and has always existed.

Arguments for Math Being Invented

Supporters of the invention theory argue that math is a human construct, and therefore must have been invented. They point to the fact that math has evolved over time to become more complex and sophisticated, suggesting that it is a result of human innovation. Additionally, they point to the fact that different cultures and civilizations have developed their own unique mathematical systems, which further supports the notion that math was invented rather than discovered (Gillings, 1972).

An Analysis of Math Through Time: When Was Math Discovered or Invented?

In order to further analyze the debate over the origin of math, it is important to examine the development of math throughout history. Below is a brief overview of the development of math during two key periods: the Ancient Greek era and the Renaissance period.

The Ancient Greek Era

The Ancient Greeks are credited with making significant advances in mathematics. They developed the concept of proof, which allowed them to prove theorems and create proofs for their theories (Gillings, 1972). Additionally, they developed trigonometry, geometry, and algebra, which were all major developments in the field of mathematics (Gillings, 1972). These advancements suggest that math was invented, rather than discovered, during this period.

The Renaissance Period

The Renaissance period saw the development of calculus, which revolutionized the field of mathematics. This development further suggests that math was invented rather than discovered, as calculus was the culmination of centuries of mathematical advancements (Gillings, 1972). Additionally, during this period, mathematicians began to develop new ways of thinking about math, such as the idea of infinity, which further suggests that math was invented rather than discovered.

A Look at Ancient Civilizations and Their Contributions to Math

In addition to examining the development of math through time, it is also important to look at the contributions of ancient civilizations to the field of mathematics. Below are two of the most significant civilizations and their contributions to math.

Mesopotamian Civilization

The Mesopotamian civilization is credited with developing the first counting system, which allowed them to keep track of numbers and quantities (Gillings, 1972). Additionally, they are credited with developing the concept of zero, which was revolutionary at the time (Gillings, 1972). These developments suggest that math was discovered, rather than invented, by the Mesopotamians.

Egyptian Civilization

The Egyptians are credited with developing a hieroglyphic writing system, which allowed them to record their calculations and measurements (Gillings, 1972). Additionally, they made advancements in geometry, which allowed them to accurately measure land and build monuments (Gillings, 1972). These developments suggest that math was invented, rather than discovered, by the Egyptians.

Examining the Development of Math: Where Was Math Discovered or Invented?

Finally, it is important to look at the locations of early mathematical discoveries and the spread of math across the world. Math has been found in many different locations, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, India, China, and Greece (Gillings, 1972). Additionally, math has been spread across the world by traders, travelers, and missionaries, suggesting that math was discovered or invented in multiple locations (Gillings, 1972).

Conclusion

The debate over whether math was discovered or invented has been ongoing for centuries. After examining the historical development of math, analyzing ancient civilizations and their contributions to math, and looking at the locations of early mathematical discoveries, it is clear that math was both discovered and invented. Math has remained consistent throughout history, which suggests that it was discovered. Additionally, math has evolved over time, which suggests that it was invented. Ultimately, it is impossible to definitively answer the question of whether math was discovered or invented, but it is clear that both theories have merit.

Summary of Findings

This article examined the debate of whether math was discovered or invented by exploring the historical development of math, analyzing ancient civilizations and their contributions to math, and looking at the locations of early mathematical discoveries. It is clear that math was both discovered and invented, as it has remained consistent throughout history yet has also evolved over time. Ultimately, it is impossible to definitively answer the question of whether math was discovered or invented.

Implications for Future Research

Further research is needed to better understand the origin of math. This could include investigating the contributions of other civilizations to the development of math, such as the Incas, Aztecs, and Mayans. Additionally, further research could focus on examining the spread of math throughout the world and how it has impacted culture and society. Finally, research could focus on the implications of math in modern society, such as its applications in technology, medicine, and economics.