> one view is that mathematics is a stiff and fixed set of rules and algorithms while the other view is that mathematics is flexible and our understanding of math comes from questioning of why mathematics functions so effectively
I havent read the book but this dichotomy is not an intrinsic feature of how people pursued mathematics historically.
The "stiffness" and excess focus on rigor and accuracy developed gradually over the 19th century because people were being loose canons - primarily around calculus.
I havent read the book but this dichotomy is not an intrinsic feature of how people pursued mathematics historically.
The "stiffness" and excess focus on rigor and accuracy developed gradually over the 19th century because people were being loose canons - primarily around calculus.