Mathematics, the science of creating relationships between different entities, has played a vital role in the development of human civilization since its discovery. Through the use of math, humans have been able to discover insights about the natural world, build complex machines, and create complex social orders.
It is no wonder why math is known as the “universal language. ” Math has gone through an extensive evolution since its invention, bringing us to its modern form of mathematics today. It is important to examine the evolution of mathematics in order to gain a better understanding of our current understanding of the subject.
The Ancient World
In the ancient world, mathematics was used primarily for practical applications. It was used to calculate the length of a year, plan eclipses, create calendars and measure the size of the Earth. The ancient Greeks were the first to develop a system of geometry, which they used to analyze the nature of space.
At the same time, the Egyptians developed a system of maths derived from the decimal system, which was used for measuring the area of land and measuring the volume of items. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras is often credited with developing the principles of arithmetic, which is the basis for modern mathematical principles.
He was the first to understand the concept of a number, and developed abstract mathematical concepts such as geometry and trigonometry. While many of his discoveries have been forgotten, his legacy lives on in the principles of mathematics used today.
The Middle Ages
In the Middle Ages, mathematics saw a revival in Europe alongside the growth of the Islamic world. Scholars in the Islamic world developed what were called the Islamic Caliphates, which used mathematics to calculate the angle of the sun and even predict the future. These scholars were also responsible for the development of algebra, which allowed for the solving of increasingly complex problems.
This form of mathematics was then spread to Europe, where it eventually became the basis for modern mathematics. At the same time, mathematicians in Europe began to develop a more sophisticated understanding of geometry, using complex methods for solving mathematical problems.
This included the invention of calculus, which was developed by Scottish mathematician, Sir Isaac Newton. His discoveries helped further mathematical understanding, allowing for further advances in mathematics since then.
The Renaissance
The Renaissance saw the emergence of more refined mathematical understanding and concepts. Mathematicians such as Pierre de Fermat and Rene Descartes developed a more sophisticated understanding of number theory, algebra, and calculus. Fermat’s “Last Theorem” is a prime example of this more rigorous understanding, as it helped mathematicians to better grasp the concept of irrational numbers.
At the same time, the development of calculus opened up a new level of understanding of the laws of nature and the universe. The Renaissance also saw the rise of the “modern” style of mathematics.
This was based on the work of French mathematician, Blaise Pascal, who developed the theory of probability and the first calculator. This encouraged mathematicians to explore new concepts and use mathematics as a tool for understanding the nature of reality and the universe.
The 18th and 19th Century
In the 18th and 19th centuries, mathematics underwent a great change. Many mathematicians began developing theorems and equations that could prove or disprove theories about the nature of the universe.
This helped mathematicians to better understand the laws of physics, and develop new ways of viewing the world around them. During this time, famous mathematicians such as Carl Gauss and Joseph Fourier developed new ideas and theories, which helped further the development of mathematics. They developed new techniques, including the use of functional analysis and differential equations, which helped mathematicians to understand the world in a much more sophisticated way.
The 20th and 21st Century
In the 20th and 21st centuries, mathematics has continued to evolve and grow. It is now used in a wide variety of applications, ranging from engineering, finance, robotics and medical sciences. Scientists now use mathematics to better understand the laws of nature and to study the universe on a greater level.
At the same time, mathematics is increasingly being used for more abstract concepts, such as artificial intelligence, where algorithms are being developed to help machines think and create logical solutions. Mathematics has also seen a surge in the use of computers and the development of graphical representation.
This has enabled mathematicians to explore the subject on a deeper level, as they can visualize and understand mathematical concepts in ways never before possible. This has enabled the continued development of mathematical understanding and has helped develop new ways of using the subject to solve complex problems.
Conclusion
Math has come a long way since its invention in the ancient world. It has seen many different evolutions, bringing us to its modern form of mathematics today. It has evolved to become an essential tool in many fields, such as engineering, finance, robotics, and medical sciences.
Mathematics has also seen an increase in the use of computers and graphical representations, allowing mathematicians to explore the subject on a deeper level. Ultimately, math continues to evolve and will continue to do so as the needs of humanity continue to develop.