Is Pythagoras Chinese?

 If we were to acknowledge the non-European source in our classroom, one difference we will make as teachers is widen the horizon of our students. Since thousands of years ago the knowledge of math rely on the contribution of different people around the world, even long before University was a thing.  Throughout the years different culture and civilisation has shaped the Mathematics we teach. A singular Eurocentric view on Mathematics in classrooms undermines the contribution that came before us. Acknowledging non-European sources not only “give  credit” or “recognise” the contribution made by other’s but also introduce a different perspective on the same Math we teach nowadays. 

 

The naming of this theorem could mis-led people to believe the Mathematical concept was discovered or invented by the person named after. In many cases, it may not be true. Take Pythagoras as an example. Egyptian was known to use 3, 4, 5 triangles in their constructions back in their days. In the Pythagoras days, he further discovered more triples and generalized it. It is not meant to discredit the work Pythagoras did, but it is important to let people know the stories and idea before Pythagoras. The prominent status European giant was based on their ability to expand and organize the knowledge in logical and coherent manner. Take Euclid’s ELEMENT as an example, it was the only comprehensive, well-proved and organized text in his time. As teachers, it is important to acknowledge the old saying “ we see further, because we are standing on the shoulder of giants” .

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