Maths is undoubtedly humanity’s greatest invention, allowing us to take our first steps into understanding the world around us. This era of science and technology hasn’t seen any one civilisation language or system having any great advantage. However, learning maths — no doubt due to its complexity — can differ from nation to nation, with varying difficulty levels.
In this article, we’ll explore which country has the most difficult maths in the world.
Differences in Math Systems
Mathematics may have a common language, but there are definitely differences in how each nation teaches their students about this valuable subject. In most countries, for example, the base 10 system is used; also known as the decimal system, this system requires students to learn how to recognize numerals, and perform basic mathematical functions such as adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing. But there are also other systems, such as the base 16 system used by certain countries that require students to understand hexadecimals (the 16 numerals from 0 to F).
In fact, in some countries — Japan, for example — the commonly used number system is the base 20, the vingenary system, which the Japanese have been using for more than 2000 years. Such a system requires an understanding of two new numerals that are not included in the decimal system, which can add complexity and difficulty levels to the maths.
The difference in mathematical systems between countries can also extend to the methods and notation used in each system. For example, in the United States, teachers often use the method of grouping, under which in order to perform certain functions (multiplication, for example) the student will group the numnbers first, such as 100 and 50, and then come to the equation. Other countries prefer other methods, such as long division, which requires students to divide large numbers by performing long sequences of operations.
The Country with the Most Difficult Maths
After exploring the various differences in maths system, we can now turn our attention to finding out which country has the most difficult maths. One of the countries that often ranks highly on lists allocating difficulty is Japan, a country where the vingenary system is used and is accepted as the primary number system. Education in Japan is highly competitive, and this extends to maths.
From a young age, Japanese students are encouraged to really understand their maths and strive for perfection. This policy has yielded dividends, with Japan consistently appearing near the top of international rankings of maths proficiency.
However, there’s also an emphasis on memorization of formulae in Japanese education, as well as the need to solve puzzles. In fact, variations of maths tournaments, such as ‘Math Prize for Girls’, create something of a competitive atmosphere, often pressuring children to excel in the subject. This competitive mindset can be further evidenced by the nation’s math challenges, such as the Japan Elementary Math Olympiad Contest, and the Japanese National Math Olympiad.
However, while Japan might typically rank higher in difficulty, they are not the only country to implement highly challenging maths. Singapore also has a tough maths system that also encourages memorization as well as intense competition.
Singapore even hosts its own mathematics competitions: the Singapore Mathematical Olympiad for Primary School Students, and the Singapore Mathematical Olympiad for Secondary School Students.
Conclusion
Though there is no definitive answer to the question of which country has the most difficult maths, there is an ample amount of evidence to suggest that Japan often leads the way in terms of difficulty. Their competitive learning atmosphere, base 20 system and general attitude towards maths being a subject that requires a deep understanding puts them ahead of the competition. However, many countries have developed tough complex maths systems, with Singapore being a notable example.
Whatever the country, maths will always remain an important and highly valuable tool for understanding the world around us.