First-Year Seminar (105-6-51)
Instructors
Shuyi Weng
Meeting Info
University Library 4722: Mon, Wed, Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM
Overview of class
The Bright and Dark Sides of Mathematics
What is mathematics? How would you describe it in a sentence or two? What do you feel is the purpose of learning mathematics? What impacts has mathematics made on your personal endeavor, the communities around you, and human society? This first-year seminar will not be a course in mathematics, but rather one on the relation between mathematics and human society, as well as each individual that consists of the entire society. We will see positive and negative experiences people have had about mathematics, and we will reflect on appropriate use of mathematics for human flourishing and societal advancements. The reading materials of the course will be primarily from the required textbooks, but will also be supplemented by additional resources on Canvas. In-class discussion will-- at all times-- be respectful, to allow for productive conversations.
Class Materials (Required)
978.0300258.516
Mathematics for Human Flourishing
Author: Su
Publisher: Yale University Press
978.055341.8811
Weapons of Math Destruction
Author: O'Neil
Publisher: Crown
Class Materials (Suggested)
No suggested materials. See required materials
Class Attributes
WCAS First-Year Seminar
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for First Year & Sophomore only
Reserved for First Year & Sophomore only