Leesan invites you to explore the beauty of mathematics that touches every aspect of life, from the simplest daily tasks to the grand designs of our world.
The article offers a unique perspective and insight into the mathematics of our daily lives, and how we can come to see it’s beauty.” Aidan Pellow-Jarman
Mathematics, to me, is far from just a cold and impersonal set of immutable laws; I believe in its beauty. It embodies a remarkable synthesis of logical precision and human creativity. Mathematics is the universal language facilitating human connection and understanding across centuries. In its essence, it represents beauty and elegance in their purest forms, used to sculpt and enhance our world.
The beauty of mathematics is in its universal relevance; its ability to touch everyone who encounters it. It has become the driving force for innovation; propelling human achievement throughout the ages, granting us the ability to create marvels that transcend the ordinary confines of logic. Its beauty is not reserved for the prodigies among us—it is there for all to appreciate. The role of mathematics in our daily existence is as fundamental as the air we breathe. “Without mathematics, there’s nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers.” (Shakuntala Devi, Twitter, 2021)
The Shadows that surround its beauty
For many, mathematics appears as a dull and tedious chore, dressed in a guise of difficulty and despair, obscuring its true beauty. For most, school experiences have instilled an aversion towards mathematics. Yet, those who truly explore mathematics and delve into its profound depths will come to recognise its true beauty. The intrinsic beauty of mathematics emerges from its abstraction, purity, simplicity, and symmetry — a brand of aesthetics unrivalled. Despite its complexities, the beauty of mathematics can be seen everywhere. Open for all of us to experience in the patterns of our daily life.
Mathematics touches all of us.
- Cashiers routinely employ algorithms to accurately determine the change due to customers, this practical application of mathematics ensures efficiency and accuracy in everyday transactions.
- Engineers’ lives revolve around mathematics; it is the foundation upon which they design and construct enduring structures.
- Chefs must master the art of measurement and proportion to achieve the exact taste profiles in their culinary creations. Mathematical precision ensures flawless replication of flavours in every dish.
- The essence of music is deeply rooted in mathematics. Its elements, governed by mathematical relationships, combine to create soul-stirring compositions.
While mathematics is indeed a universal language, its true allure extends far beyond this. The beauty of mathematics lies in its dynamic nature: it is constantly evolving, adapting, and integrating to every facet it encounters. For this very reason, Mathematics is an invaluable tool that can be used to enhance our daily lives through its applications.
Ultimately, we find ourselves at a crossroads: to either embrace the beauty of mathematics or to overlook it. Many grapple with the intricacies of its charm, yet all of us possess the potential to comprehend it. Mathematics can be and should be utilized by everyone to improve their daily lives. I’ve always believed that mathematics has the power to better our world, especially in South Africa. If we used mathematics to its fullest beauty here in SA, we could address numerous challenges, improving the lives of millions. It is for that very reason that I believe that Mathematics is truly beautiful.
Leesan Moodley
Student BSC Computer Science, Stellenbosch University
References
- 2015. The Beauty of Mathematics. Available: https://thisibelieve.org/essay/80689/ [2023, March 14].
