Geometry from Africa: Mathematical and Educational Explorations
Author(s): Paulus Gerdes (Author)
Publisher: The Mathematical Association of America
Publication Date: September 30, 1999
Edition: First Edition
Language: English
Print length: 224 pages
ISBN-10: 0883857154
ISBN-13: 9780883857151
Book Description
This book draws on geometric ideas from cultural activities from Subsaharan Africa, and demonstrates how they may be explored to develop mathematical reasoning from school level through to university standard. Paulus Gerdes provides a thoroughly illustrated and researched exploration of mathematical ideas, motifs and patterns. Many important mathematical points are brought to the fore, not via the formal ‘theorem-proof’ method, but in a more schematic and diagrammatic manner. African artifacts, oral traditions, sand drawing and other forms of artwork with a geometric basis, all provide mathematical ideas for discussion in this unique book. Mathematicians and teachers of mathematics at all levels will be fascinated, as will anybody with an interest in African cultures.
Editorial Reviews
Review
Gerdes presents us a rare mathematical gift. Through him we learn of the diversity, richness and pleasure of mathematical ideas found in sub-Saharan Africa. From a careful reading and working through this delightful book, one will find a fresh approach to mathematical inquiry as well as encounter a subtle challenge to Eurocentric discourses concerning the when , where, who and why of mathematics. — Arthur Powell, Rutgers University
Book Description
This book draws on geometric ideas from cultural activities from Subsaharan Africa to develop mathematical reasoning.
About the Author
Paulus Gerdes received his doctorates in mathematics, the history of mathematics, and mathematics education from the Universities of Dresden and Wuppertal (Germany). He has been a professor of mathematics at the Eduardo Mondlane University, and the Universidade Pedaggica in Mozambique for many years, serving as President from 1989-1996. He was a visiting professor at the University of Georgia from 1996 to 1998. He has served the African Mathematical Union as chair of the commission on the History of Mathematics in Africa since 1986, and was the secretary of the Southern African Mathematical Sciences Association 1991-1995.
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