What Everyone Should Know about the History of Mathematics

Does 2 + 2 always equal 4? Many assume that mathematics is a world of absolutes. This brief survey challenges the reader to reconsider that notion. The longitudinal slice of the history of mathematics presented here focuses on "truth" and how it relates to mathematics. By learning about the historical and cultural contexts from which various branches of mathematics have emerged, the reader can gain an understanding of the tentative position of mathematical truth and its impact on 20th century post-modernism. The reader will be challenged to reflect on personal views of truth and how truth does or does not relate to mathematics. The final chapter provides a number of options for reader to consider and encourages the reader to develop his or her own opinion.