Math is considered to some as a divine truth. Others have difficulty grasping the fundamentals of complex equations, and believe math to be somewhat of a mystery. With math and statistics people find both answers and confusion. Level up your understanding with these famous quotes on the subject of numbers and equations.
The Poetic Beauty of Fact
Albert Einstien was one of the world’s brightest mathematical minds. He said “Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.” Poetry is open to interpretation, and ideas and theories can be tested and proven with the power of math. The equations that are used to turn theories into fact are poetic in their own right. Einstein is also quoted as saying, “Mathematics are well and good but nature keeps dragging us around by the nose.” Math can help us arrive at fact-based findings, but nature is still filled with mysteries that elude our understanding.
Math Exists Everywhere
“Go down deep enough into anything and you will find mathematics,” were the famous words of Dean Schlicter. Math is a great tool for discovery, and has helped the human race gain a greater understanding of just about every aspect of living.
Simplifying Complicated Matter
Simple equations are the base of even the most complicated findings. Although many fail to grasp the understanding required to engineer their own mathematical theories, everyone can benefit from the findings of others. S. Gudder said, “The essence of mathematics is not to make simple things complicated, but to make complicated things simple.”
When Statistics Work Against You
“How do you nurture a positive attitude when all the statistics say you’re a dead man? You go to work.” These are the words of actor Patrick Swayze. Probabilities are not certainties, and if we allow ourselves to believe otherwise it can set the stage for disaster.
Work the Odds in Your Favor
Mark Twain solidifies the fact that possibility exists in probability with this quote: “Facts are stubborn things, but statistics are pliable.” Statistics are created with variables, and are not unequivocal fact. By changing the set of variables, a statistic will be altered. They are much easier to pull in one’s favor than fact.
The Easily Swayed Statistics of Untruths
Statistics are often used to demonstrate needs and trends in today’s society. Benjamin Disraeli held deep distrust in this method of calculation. He was known to say: “There are three types of lies – lies, damn lies, and statistics.”
The Facts Will Set You Free
Tobias Dantzig believed that mathematics holds the power to prove definitive fact. “Mathematics is the supreme judge; from its decisions there is no appeal.” These were the words he spoke, and the words he adhered to.
A Pure Form of Thinking
Plato said that “The highest form of pure thought is in mathematics.” Facts are based on proven thoughts, and mathematics is the universal language of discovery. Equations are made up of logical sequences that will expose fraudulent fact.
The Privilege of Understanding
John Adams understood the importance of mathematics, and the journey he had to take to open doors for younger generations. His quote: “I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy,” was founded by a painful understanding of the world in which he lived.
The Wonder and Discovery of Mathematics
Perhaps John Adams felt first-hand the premise of Aristotle’s quote: “There are things which seem incredible to most men who have not studied mathematics.” The wonder of the world is incredible, and so is the scientific understanding we have of it. It’s quite impossible to understand the weight of mathematical findings if you can’t follow the equations.
We still have much to discover in this world we live in. With the power of mathematics and today’s great minds, we can continue to work along our path of understanding. We will also continue to look back and value the notable words of history’s great thinkers. They may hold the key to the next great discovery.
This is a guest post provided for Blogging Mom of 4.
