Mathematics: history, philosophy and applications to science

Abstract

The field of mathematics, especially the ‘applied’ type, developed independently in each of the four great ancient civilizations of Egypt, India, China and Babylonia out of practical necessities of daily life. This development eventually reached Hellenic Greece which did a lot to advance and transform it, paying particular attention to the ‘pure’ rather than the ‘applied’ type. Because of their similar nature and structure, mathematics is now greatly applied to science. Mathematization of science has several important advantages, including the fact that it facilitates understanding and operationalization of science. Its main disadvantages, however, are that many users perceive it as difficult and are deficient in it; suggestions are offered as how to remedy the deficiency.