Nov 6: Was Pythagoras Chinese?

Throughout our discussions, it has become increasingly apparent that math has been deeply shaped by colonialism. One example is the underrepresentation of non-European mathematicians and their contributions to the field. While many significant discoveries and theorems were made by scholars outside of Europe, the naming of mathematical concepts is overwhelmingly dominated by European individuals. I believe this has a substantial impact on student learning and understanding. Acknowledging the contributions of non-European mathematicians is a crucial step toward debunking the stereotype that non-European civilizations were intellectually inferior to their European counterparts. When students learn about the diverse cultures that have shaped mathematics, they are exposed to different methods, perspectives, and problem-solving strategies. As stated in the article, the Chinese were more interested in "rote memorization" and wanted to guide readers to "master methods for themselves". On the other hand, the Greeks were more open to "oral group discussions." Having access to both these strategies allows students to approach mathematical problems with a wider set of tools. This may enhance their ability to think critically and solve problems. 

I have never felt particularly attached to the names or theorems of mathematical concepts. However, I believe the tradition of naming theorems after individuals may be more problematic than helpful. In some cases, it overshadows the collaborative, cumulative nature of mathematical discovery, where ideas are often built upon by multiple scholars across different cultures and eras. Consequently, I propose that we reconsider the use of specific names for mathematical concepts altogether. It might be more effective to adopt labels based on the concept's application or use. For instance, the "Pythagorean Theorem" has been shown to have roots in ancient Chinese and Babylonian mathematics, yet the European association with the name has overshadowed these earlier contributions. Rather than crediting one culture and diminishing others, we could refer to it more neutrally as the "right triangle relationship theorem." This more accurately describes its function and application. Moreover, this approach would shift the focus from the person to the idea, ensuring that the contributions of all cultures are recognized equally.