On Definitions of "Mathematician"

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

article

Ron Buckmire¹  Carrie Diaz Eaton²  Joseph Hibdon³  Katherine M Kinnaird⁴  Drew Lewis⁵  Jessica Libertini⁶  Omayra Ortega⁷  Rachel Roca⁸  Andrés R. Vindas Meléndez⁹ 

[1] Occidental College;Bates College;Northeastern Illinois University;Smith College;Institute for Mathematical and Statistical Innovation, University of Chicago;Joint Special Operations University;Sonoma State University;Michigan State University;University of California

关键词: mathematician;    mathematics community;    mathematics identity;    social justice;   

DOI  :  10.5642/jhummath.ZRUZ1463

学科分类：社会科学、人文和艺术（综合）

来源: Claremont Center for the Mathematical Sciences

【 摘 要 】

The definition of who is or what makes a “mathematician” is an important issue to be addressed in the mathematics community. Too often, a narrower definition of who is considered a mathematician (and what is considered mathematics) is used to exclude people from the discipline—both explicitly and implicitly. However, using a narrow definition of a mathematician allows us to highlight, examine, and challenge systemic barriers that exist in certain spaces of the community. This paper analyzes and illuminates tensions between narrow and broad definitions and how they can be used to promote both inclusion and exclusion simultaneously. In this article, we present a framework of definitions based on identity, function, and qualification and explore several different meanings of mathematician. By interrogating various definitions, we highlight their risks and opportunities, with an emphasis on implications for broadening and/or narrowing participation of underrepresented groups in the mathematics community.

【 授权许可】

CC BY-NC-ND