Citizenship & Democracy in Mathematics

Response to: "Citizenship Education in the Context of School Mathematics" ~ Elaine Simmt.

Elaine Simmt argues in her article that by studying mathematics, one will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, that are crucial for a democratic, informed member of society. I certainly see the potential validity of this statement. Having met, and studied under, many mathematicians, I know that people who study math passionately are conscious and critical thinking. There are many personality traits (reserved, patient, analytical, cautious) associated with mathematicians that would suggest that those who study math are affected positively by their extensive study.

But perhaps Simmt has missed a step between critical thinker and global citizen. As much as there are 'problem-solvers' in the world, there can be 'problem-posers', or in a social context, 'problem-causers'. Do we know any bad 'math people'? What about internet hackers, inside traders, card sharks, money lenders and ruthless businessmen? Have they not done the math? Having the skills to manipulate our highly quantized world doesn't pose any limit or moral barriers to those seek wealth or power.

I do agree with Simmt though, that math is very much a part of the human experience. And those who use math, do 'transform' our reality and not just 'transmit' it. Math is a double-edged sword. For every opportunity for constructive processes, there exists the possibility for destructive processes; for every problem solved, a problem posed. The beautiful symmetry of math means that everything has an inverse. Math gives us the skills to examine the world at its most fundamental levels, but the choice of good or bad still exists. All I can hope for, is that I can show my students the beauty, symmetry and good in mathematics and prepare them for the true problems that life will present them.