The simplist concept in mathematics

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SUMMARY

The simplest concept in mathematics is a debated topic, with participants suggesting various foundational ideas. Set theory and logic are often discussed in relation to each other, but many contributors argue that basic arithmetic functions, particularly addition, represent the simplest mathematical concept. The discussion highlights that subtraction, multiplication, and division can be viewed as variations of addition. Additionally, the concept of binary (1 and 0) is presented as fundamental to understanding mathematics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic arithmetic operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
  • Familiarity with set theory and logic
  • Knowledge of binary concepts (1 and 0)
  • Basic understanding of mathematical functions and their relationships
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the foundations of set theory and its implications in mathematics
  • Research the principles of binary mathematics and its applications
  • Study the properties of arithmetic operations and their interrelations
  • Investigate the concept of identity matrices and their role in linear algebra
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in foundational mathematical concepts and their interconnections.

Loren Booda
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What is the simplist concept in mathematics?
 
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One can always get an argument between set theorists and logicians as to whether Set theory is based on logic or logic is based on set theory.

That is why I would say the simplist concept is either "set" or "True-False".
 
Logic/illogic?
 
um id pick addition as the simplest. your 4 basic functions (addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication) are all different forms of adding. subtraction is adding a negative number, multiplicatin is adding a number a certain about of times, and division is the inverse of multiplication. all functions can be done this way so my choice is addition.
 
multiplying by 0
 
Originally posted by brum
multiplying by 0

I would actually say that deviding by Zero involves a lot less working out!
 
i believe he said concept not function, i would agree multiplying by 0 is easiest function, but i like my answer better.
 
Our ability to recognize and associate between opposite concepts,
in my opinion this is the heart of Math language.
 
that there is only 1 correct answer to a given problem.
 
  • #10
unit zero there are not always only 1 answer to a problem. for instance sqrt(9) could be either -3 or 3 couldn't it?
 
  • #11
No! sqrt(9) is always 3. Maybe you're confused with the equation x^2=9, which indeed has solutions x=3 and x=-3.

In answer to the original question: I'd say that 1 (or the n x n Itentity matrix) would be the simplest concept available...
 
Last edited:
  • #12
1 or 0, something or nothing..binary
 

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