Math is a broad area of knowledge that many scholars have implied to by numerous definitions. Inductively, the core elements of its concept denote that it is a branch of science, and area of thought, primarily concerned with quantity, number, and space. Unlike art, that is usually indefinite, math is definite, like science. Its concepts usually aim at arriving definite conclusions. Notably, concept of math can either be abstract or applied mathematics. Technically, abstract, or pure math, involves making calculations that an individual can only perceive in the mind, in logical forms of numbers, quantities, and space. Math can also applied in engineering, physics, and other subjects. Basically, all the above fall under applied mathematics which touches on virtually every aspect of life. Arguably, there is no discipline which lacks mathematical applications.
Some people usually consider math to be different from art because of the logics behind its content do not involve creativity. However, such perceptions are not true. To start with, it offers conclusions that are established on absolute objectivity, but this only works when every element in its structure is aligned to each other. It should be noted that the subject is an essential discipline that applies to many other fields. It may also influence realms which are ‘artistic’ such as architecture and design, as well as medicine, engineering, and social sciences. Therefore, it is incorrect to make a conclusion that art and math are mutually exclusive.
Math has evoked thoughts in the minds of many. Did people discover math, or is it a human creation? Can the axioms of math assist in comprehending and presenting logical arguments? Why have other scholars, and philosophers, considered math as the language of the universe? In actual sense, there are either one, or two, grey areas, which have made some philosophers argue that math is not a science. Popper (2014) asserts, in his philosophies of falsification, that math can never be falsified. One of the questions that are interesting to explore when deducing what math truly entails is investigating its relationship with reality. Because math explains reality, its existence is questioned on whether it was invented, or discovered. It is, however, evident that math describes reality. For instance, the mathematical concepts and equations, as deduced by Einstein and Newton, hold the pillar to modern scientific realities.
Technically, people live in a mathematical world which is why the subject is so important to modern life. Notably, mathematics describes the universal phenomena of forces and energy; it defines reality. Mathematical models that people have created in equations, for instance, describe the flights of projectiles and the orbital paths of the earth, moon, Jupiter, satellites and other planets. Mathematical equation, such as the Einstein’s postulations on energy, worked during the big bang, and scientists have established that Newton’s assertions on motions would work in the same way that he described. Therefore, mathematics described the universe even before humans came into existence, which leave the question of whether it was discovered or created; if it was discovered, where does it exist and in what form?
Galileo had set up an experiment, about 400 years ago, and established that objects actually accelerate when they fall towards the earth (Theory of Knowledge, 2014). Many people of the time, had overlooked this simple reality. In coming up with the postulations, Galileo relied on empirical knowledge and conclusions. The rest of Europe followed Aristotle and believed that conclusions were only attainable through discussions and logic. Today, empirical research is the most respected method of establishing facts. in fact, it is employed in the acquisition of knowledge, especially on matters regarding the natural world. Basically, it defines the scientific method of knowledge acquisition which is arguably the best way to carry out research. Science, therefore, provides explanations and information based on impartial research, and not beliefs, supported by credible proof (Theory of Knowledge, 2014).
Mathematics has been used in science to test the latter’s credibility. Applied math and scientific theories have led to important innovations which have shaped the world’s technologies. Science is the empirical study of facts which are based on experimental proof and logic. The discipline has grown to be a wide area of knowledge. Sometimes, science can measure against reality. However, as Albert Einstein said, it is still the most precious thing humans have. This implied that the discipline can have inherent flaws and failed experiments but still remains so important in human life.
Many aspects of modern day life like arts, human behavior, emotions, and even religion have factors that loosely link to science. However, some people usually view them as non-scientific. Links between human nature and the universe in any form such as color can be traced even if the discipline remotely seems incompatible to the theories of art and others. People link human behavior to psychology. However, apart from the cognitive and sociocultural levels of analysis, there is a biological perspective on every issue. In this manner, scientists examine the chemical compositions of the brain. Therefore, there is a link between biology, chemistry, and human behavior.
Science is wide; the discipline can be linked to any other school of thought, or area of knowledge. Arguably, every concept has a scientific explanation or understanding. Math can explicitly prove scientific theories which are based on empirical research (Theory of Knowledge, 2014). Humans, through the study of the material universe, acquire scientific knowledge and are able to understand natural patterns and behaviors.
