INTRODUCTION TO CULTURAL MATHEMATICS

The topic of cultural mathematics (also called ethnomathematics) is a fascinating topic about the human aspects of mathematics, and it is easy to ask readers to participate in the topic by thinking about mathematics from their own perspectives.  This book has two main parts, and Part I consists of several chapters that describe the major concepts of cultural mathematics. The topics include: cultural aspects of mathematics, numeration and number symbols, kinship relations, art and decoration, games and divination, and calendars.  Part II includes two chapters consisting of case studies. The cultures studied are the Otomies of central Mexico and the Incas of South America. In these chapters, the concepts from Part I are applied to the particular culture, in order to put all the concepts together in one context.  Each chapter concludes with exercises, followed by further notes about the topics discussed in that chapter.  Hints and comments about the exercises are also provided at the end of the book.  This book is roughly at the level of a reader who has taken college algebra; however, the most important prerequisite is an interest in the connections between mathematics and culture.

Challenges readers to think creativelyabout mathematics and ponder its role in their own daily lives Cultural mathematics, or ethnomathematics as it is also known, 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 Otomies and 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 of mathematics, and cultural studies. The book is also a valuable resource and reference for anyone interested in the connections between mathematics, culture, anthropology, and history.