Introduction to cultural mathematics: with case studies in the Otomies and Incas

Challenges readers to think creativelyabout mathematics and ponder its role in their own daily livesCultural mathematics, or ethnomathematics as it is alsoknown, studies the relationship between mathematics and culture—with the ultimate goal of contributing to an appreciation of the connection between the two. Introduction to Cultural Mathematics: With Case Studies in the Otomiesand Incas integrates both theoretical and applied aspects of the topic, promotes discussions on the development of mathematical concepts, and provides a comprehensive reference for teaching and learning about multicultural mathematical practices.This illuminating book provides a nontraditional, evidence-based approach to mathematics that promotes diversity and respect for cultural heritages. Part One covers such major concepts as cultural aspects of mathematics, numeration and number symbols, kinship relations, art and decoration, games, divination, and calendars. Part Two takes those concepts and applies them to fascinating case studies of both the Otomies of Central Mexico and the Incas of South America. Throughout the book, numerous illustrations, examples, and motivational questions promote an interactive understanding of the topic. Each chapter begins with questions that encourage a cooperative, inquiry-based approach to learning and concludes with a series of exercises that allow readers to test their understanding of the presented material. Introduction to Cultural Mathematics is an ideal book for courses on cultural mathematics, the history ofmathematics, and cultural studies. The book is also a valuable resource and reference for anyone interested in the connections between mathematics, culture, anthropology, and history. INDICE: PREFACE ixINTRODUCTION xiPART I GENERAL CONCEPTS1 Understanding the Culture in Mathematics 32 Numeration Systems 243 Number Gestures and Number Symbols 394 Kinship and Social Relations 575 Art and Decoration 736 Divination1037 Games 1238 Calendars 142PART II CASE STUDIES9 HñÃñhñu Math: The Otomies 18110 Tawantinsuyu Math: The Incas 211HINTS TO SELECTED EXERCISES 253BIBLIOGRAPHY 273INDEX 281

• ISBN: 978-1-118-11552-7
• Editorial: John Wiley & Sons
• Encuadernacion: Cartoné
• Páginas: 306
• Fecha Publicación: 27/04/2012
• Nº Volúmenes: 1
• Idioma: Inglés