Our second myth for our series on debunking the myths of mathematics is prominent in every high school in America. You probably heard this one when you were in algebra as a student. In your frustration you might have even blurted, "When am I ever going to use this?" As if the entire weight of importance of a subject or object was wrapped up in its usefulness. While our consumer driven world idolizes utilitarianism, we don't love the things we use. We may throw around the term love to describe the paper towels, cups, cars, and even trash bags that we prefer, but we understand that these objects are temporary. They do not last forever. In fact, we value the things that last. Generations of Americans have passed on traditions, heirlooms, furniture, and customs for over two centuries. The value of something is not contained in its ability to be used. We have art museums all over the world as constant reminders that life is more than bread. What is this myth of mathematics that we seem to believe in in spite of the contraire evidence?
I learn mathematics so that I can use it in my future profession, otherwise I will probably never use it again.
The fact is that mathematics is not a servile art, but rather an essential part of the liberal arts. To treat it as a servile art is to ask it to take on a lesser role in your life. Why would we want to study something for the sole purpose of getting a good job? That's not how free men think. The free man, in the ancient sense, studies mathematics as a beautiful, mysterious art that reveals the character of the infinite God. There is no greater reason to study the language of algebra and calculus. When in doubt, remember what the great John Adams says about the importance of the study of mathematics:
“I must study politics and war, that our sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy. Our sons ought to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history and naval architecture, navigation, commerce and agriculture in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, statuary, tapestry and porcelain.”