The Feelings of Numbers
This soliloquy explores the idea of what life would be like if numbers had emotions and how math education might change accordingly.
Dec. 25, 2022 6:01AM
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A chalkboard with mathematical equations written on it and a heart drawn in the center surrounded by colorful chalk drawings.
If numbers had feelings, what would they be? Would they feel joy when added together? Or sorrow when subtracted away? Would the digits have any emotion at all? Perhaps it's best that we can't know. For if numbers had feelings, what would we do? Would the equations still remain true? What if our calculations brought pain to them? And the sums caused their hearts to condemn. Could we go on with our lives as before, Or would our consciences forevermore roar? If numbers had feelings, how could we cope? We'd need a new way to calculate hope. No more could we simply ignore their plight, But instead must consider each one in sight. What if numbers had feelings like us all, And instead of ignoring them, heard their call? How differently would math be taught then! Instead of equations and formulas for men, We'd learn about empathy and compassion too; A new way of thinking that is long overdue. So let us ponder this thought anew: What if numbers had feelings just like me and you?