Abstract
In this chapter, mathematics educators are encouraged to think about a broader conception of mathematics, one that aims towards human well-being, freedom and choice, good social relations, security, and peace of mind. It is argued that, since as mathematics educators we influence the generations that will oversee future world affairs, it is our responsibility to prepare them to shape a new civilization, in which social justice and peace with dignity are privileged. This involves a rethinking of the ways in which mathematics is taught and practiced: rather than stressing only principles and techniques, it is also important to reflect on the ethics of mathematics, its uses for good or for evil. Part of this rethinking involves reflecting on why mathematics is taught and while the declared intention is often that it will be useful for everyday life, it is also important to recognize that our most successful students may design lethal weapons or reinforce the practices of brutal capitalism. History tells us that mathematics is the dorsal spine of modern civilization, hence mathematics and mathematics education have everything to do with the state of the world. In short, this chapter considers how, in an era of increasing globalization in all sectors of society, the ethics of respect, solidarity, and cooperation might permeate all aspects of mathematics education.
We have to learn to think in a new way. … There lies before us, if we choose, continual progress in happiness, knowledge, and wisdom. Shall we, instead, choose death, because we cannot forget our quarrels? We appeal as human beings to human beings: Remember your humanity, and forget the rest. If you can do so, the way lies open to a new Paradise; if you cannot, there lies before you the risk of universal death.
The Russell-Einstein Manifesto, 1955
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Notes
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This is quoted in Ken Ringle: A Professor’s Collision Course: Classics Scholar Mary Lefkowitz Shakes Up Academia with Her Critique of Afrocentrism. The Washington Post, June 11, 1996, pp. A1, A3.
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http://mpe.dimacs.rutgers.edu/mpe2013-overview/ See also http://www.mpe2013.org, with very interesting links.
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A detailed explanation of the project is at the site https://www.academia.edu/8500143/The_Parallel_Globe_and_the_Globo_Local_Project
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D’Ambrosio, U. (2018). To Think in a New Way in Mathematics Education. In: Ribeiro, A., Healy, L., Borba, R., Fernandes, S. (eds) Mathematics Education in Brazil . Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-93455-6_1
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