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The Hook
But perhaps, by turning math into merely a science, we have missed its poetry.
About This Conversation
University of San Diego Fletcher Jones professor of applied mathematics, Dr. Satyan Devadoss, questions whether mathematics should be learned merely for the sake of utility and efficiency. Throughout high school, we are taught mathematics because it is useful in STEM fields. It is for the sake of new technologies that you learn about percentages, Pythagoras, and polynomials.
But perhaps, by turning math into merely a science, we have missed its poetry. As Dr. Devadoss discusses in his book, Mage Merlin’s Unsolved Math Mysteries, the beauty of mathematics is not its technological use, but its ability to expand our imaginations and discover the world beyond the limits of the material.
Conversation Map
A guided path through the episode, adapted from the original topic list while preserving the questions that make the show feel like itself.
02
The Loss of Wonder in Modern Math Education
03
Joy in Solving Unsolved Math Problems
04
Rediscovering the Beauty of Mathematics
05
How STEM studies Became Separated from the Humanities and why it matters
06
Exploring Education and Interconnectiveness
07
Complexity and Value of Different Disciplines
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The Value of Analog vs Digital - "Learning to be Human again"
Recurring Question
"What books have had an impact on you?"
For Young Listeners
"What advice do you have for teenagers?"
Guest Bio
Dr. Satyan Devadoss is the Fletcher Jones professor of applied mathematics at the University of San Diego. Before this, he was professor at Williams for nearly 15 years, and has held visiting positions at Ohio State, Harvey Mudd, UC San Diego, UC Berkeley, and Stanford. He is a fellow of the American Mathematical Society, and recipient of two national teaching awards, with his thoughts appearing in venues such as NPR, the Times of London, the Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Times.
His most recent book is Mage Merlin’s Unsolved Math Mysteries (MIT/Penguin), and his other adventures can be explored here: https://satyandevadoss.org/
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