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physicsuser
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In my calculus book it says that trigonometry came to Islam from India and China as a result of millitary conquest...
How Did Islamic Scholars Influence Science and Math?
- Thread starter salem14
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the influence of Islamic scholars on science and mathematics, exploring historical contributions and cultural perspectives. Participants engage with various viewpoints regarding the significance of these contributions and the context in which they are presented.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Historical
- Meta-discussion
Main Points Raised
- Some participants provide links to articles discussing Islamic contributions to science and mathematics.
- Others express skepticism about the relevance of the topic, questioning the intent behind the original post.
- A few participants argue that the discussion should focus on cultural contributions rather than religious implications.
- One participant mentions the historical significance of the concept of zero and its development, attributing it to various cultures, including Babylonian and Indian mathematicians.
- Another participant suggests that while the zero may not have originated in Islamic culture, Muslims played a crucial role in transmitting this knowledge to Europe.
- Some express concerns about potential biases in discussing the topic, emphasizing the need for a respectful and educational approach.
- There are personal anecdotes shared about ancestry and cultural pride related to historical figures in mathematics and astronomy.
- Participants discuss the broader implications of racism and cultural misunderstanding in the context of the discussion.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the appropriateness of the topic or the intent behind the original post. There are competing views on the significance of Islamic contributions to science and mathematics, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the cultural versus religious framing of these contributions.
Contextual Notes
Some participants express uncertainty about the historical accuracy of claims regarding the invention of zero and its cultural origins, indicating a need for more nuanced understanding and verification of historical facts.
Who May Find This Useful
Readers interested in the historical contributions of Islamic scholars to science and mathematics, cultural studies, and discussions on the intersection of science and religion may find this thread informative.
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