Description
Book SynopsisINTRODUCTION TO CULTURAL MATHEMATICS Challenges readers to think creatively about 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 culturewith 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, div
Table of Contents
Preface ix
Introduction xi
PART I General Concepts
1 Understanding the Culture in Mathematics 3
2 Numeration S ystems 24
3 Number Gestures and N umber S ymbols 39
4 Kinship and S ocial R elations 57
5 Art and D ecoration 73
6 Divination 103
7 Games 123
8 Calendars 142
PART II Case S tudies
9 Hñähñu Math: T he O tomies 181
10 Tawantinsuyu Math: T he Incas 211
Hints to S elected E xercises 253
Bibliography 273
Index 281
