John Allen Paulos, a best-selling author and professor of mathematics at Temple University, discusses our complex relationship with math. He emphasizes the importance of numeracy in everyday life, exploring how storytelling can make mathematics more relatable. Topics include common misconceptions about probability, the Monty Hall paradox, and the vital role of mathematical literacy for informed citizenship. Paulos advocates for a curriculum that effectively teaches critical components like statistics and logical reasoning, aiming to demystify math for all.
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Innumeracy as a Continuum
Innumeracy is the inability to deal with basic numbers, probabilities, and logic.
It exists on a continuum, unlike literacy, which is more binary.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Conditional Probability Example
If a woman has at least one boy born in summer, the probability of two boys is 7/15ths.
This illustrates how conditional probability can be counterintuitive.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Monty Hall Problem
The Monty Hall problem highlights how conditional probability can be tricky.
Switching doors after Monty opens one increases your odds from 1/3 to 2/3.
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In 'Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences,' John Allen Paulos argues that the widespread inability to deal rationally with large numbers and probabilities leads to misinformed decisions, confused policies, and an increased susceptibility to pseudoscience. The book uses quirky anecdotes and real-world examples from areas such as stock scams, sports statistics, elections, and medical claims to illustrate the harmful effects of innumeracy. Paulos encourages readers to adopt a more quantitative approach to understanding the world around them.
Biggest Ideas in the Universe 2
Sean Carroll
In this book, Sean Carroll delves into the world of quantum mechanics, explaining how modern physics describes nature at its most profound level. Starting with the basics of quantum mechanics, Carroll discusses measurement, entanglement, and how the world is made of fields. He covers fundamental ideas such as spin, symmetry, Feynman diagrams, and the Higgs mechanism, providing a clear and accessible explanation of complex theories. The book is part of Carroll's series 'The Biggest Ideas in the Universe', aimed at making advanced physics concepts understandable for a broad audience.
A mathematician's apology
G. H. Hardy
In 'A Mathematician's Apology,' G.H. Hardy presents a justification for the study of mathematics as an end in itself, rather than for its practical applications. Written in 1940, the book is part autobiography and part philosophical treatise, where Hardy argues that the beauty and elegance of pure mathematics, particularly in number theory, justify its pursuit. He contrasts pure mathematics with applied mathematics, which he sees as less elegant and often trivial. Hardy also reflects on his own career, acknowledging that his creative mathematical abilities were waning at the time of writing. The book is a passionate defense of the value of mathematics as a creative and intellectual endeavor[2][4][5].
Who's Counting
Jerry Solomon
People have a complicated relationship to mathematics. We all use it in our everyday lives, from calculating a tip at a restaurant to estimating the probability of some future event. But many people find the subject intimidating, if not off-putting. John Allen Paulos has long been working to make mathematics more approachable and encourage people to become more numerate. We talk about how people think about math, what kinds of math they should know, and the role of stories and narrative to make math come alive.
John Allen Paulos received his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He is currently a professor of mathematics at Temple University. He s a bestselling author, and frequent contributor to publications such as ABCNews.com, the Guardian, and Scientific American. Among his awards are the Science Communication award from the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Mathematics Communication Award from the Joint Policy Board of Mathematics. His new book is Who’s Counting? Uniting Numbers and Narratives with Stories from Pop Culture, Puzzles, Politics, and More.
Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 
