The Early Formation of Mathematics: Euclid's Theories | Teen Ink

The Early Formation of Mathematics: Euclid's Theories MAG

September 9, 2022
By Kaajal BRONZE, N/a, New Jersey
Kaajal BRONZE, N/a, New Jersey
1 article 0 photos 0 comments

From the formation of mathematics to the development of current-day technology, our society has continuously been advancing. From the 20th-century point of view, the concept of mathematics today has improved, including but not limited to, topics in precalculus, geometry, and algebra that have all shaped one’s critical and logical thinking skills. Mathematics involves numerical values that are essential in determining solutions to problems that are included in the field of science. Throughout history, various theorems and concepts have evolved, including Euclidean geometry, named after the Greek mathematician who lived in approximately 300 BCE. Overall, with the growing progression of the world of mathematics, thousands of people have experienced a significant shift in concepts due to modern-day technology.


Euclid is commonly referred to as the “Father of Geometry’’ in ancient times. He was born in Greece, where he dedicated his life to the study of mathematics, creating several pieces of work revolving around the fundamental basics of math. In his book, titled The Elements of Euclid, he constructed different axioms and postulates — findings based upon logical rationales — that would later tie in together with his work. One of his postulates directly states, “To describe a circle with any center and distance.” With the creation of his theories, he was able to construct Euclidean geometry, which derived from several of his axioms that illustrated the structure of shapes and figures. 


Additionally, throughout his writing, Euclid captured mathematical concepts in algebra, like how to determine the square root of a radicand. Other than Euclid’s discoveries and theories, he has played a vital impact on civilization. For example, several people have examined his work in The Elements of Euclid, and have found his logic and reasoning to be sound. In other words, his work has impacted the world around him by allowing a new way of life and logic. Euclid has played a vital role in society — he brought up new theories and a careful analysis of geometric shapes in particular. In his work, he has also emphasized the findings of several other scientists, such as Pythagoras and Hippocrates. I find Euclid’s work to be significant in today’s society as it demonstrates the early beginning of current-day mathematics. Additionally, Euclid theories have been looked upon today by other mathematicians as a guide to the future: a classical way of analyzing timeless mathematical ideas.


Euclid’s creations have formed a foundation for several scientists throughout the centuries. Although his works have been criticized by a few; his reasoning and theorems have added to the formation of previous works published by other mathematicians. All in all, from comprehending his theories published in The Elements of Euclid, many have become informed of new mathematical and technical reasoning behind geometric figures.


Bibliography

Artist, Unknown, and NS Palmer. n.d. “Euclid.” World History Encyclopedia. Accessed June 13, 2022. www.worldhistory.org/Euclid/.

“AXIOMS AND POSTULATES OF EUCLID.” n.d. Simon Fraser University. Accessed June 13, 2022. www.sfu.ca/~swartz/euclid.htm.

Berggren, John L. n.d. “mathematics | Definition, History, & Importance | Britannica.” Encyclopedia Britannica. Accessed June 13, 2022. www.britannica.com/science/mathematics.

“Euclid Biography & Contributions to Geometry | Who was the Father of Geometry? - Video & Lesson Transcript.” 2022. Study.com. study.com/learn/lesson/euclid-biography-geometry-contributions-father.html.

“Euclid Biography - Facts, Childhood, Family Life & Achievements.” n.d. The Famous People. Accessed June 13, 2022. www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/euclid-436.php.

“Euclidean Geometry: The First Great Science.” n.d. University of Pittsburgh. Accessed June 13, 2022. sites.pitt.edu/~jdnorton/teaching/HPS_0410/chapters/non_Euclid_Euclid/index.html.


The author's comments:

Personally, I am fascinated in the concept of mathematics as a whole. I like the idea of dealing with values, graphs, and understanding the history of the foundations of mathematics. In addition, I decided to research Euclid and his motivations as a Greek mathematician as I have always been interested in earlier studies. On my free time, I have a strong interest in learning more about the field of mathematics and its original studies in pre-historic times.


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