Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the identity of Dean Schlicter and the attribution of a specific quotation, "Go down deep enough into anything and you will find mathematics." Participants explore the origins of the quote and the possible connections to historical figures in mathematics.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Historical
Main Points Raised
- One participant highlights the inspirational nature of the quotation attributed to Dean Schlicter but expresses a lack of information about him.
- Another participant mentions a Dean Charles Schlichter associated with Berkeley and Wisconsin but questions the connection to the quotation, suggesting it may be invented.
- A third participant expresses disappointment that the quote could not be linked to a well-known scientist, implying it would enhance its significance.
- One participant cites a source, "Mathematically Speaking - A Dictionary of Quotation," which references the quote in "The Mathematics Teacher" from January 1936, but does not clarify Schlicter's identity.
- Another participant speculates that the best guess for the identity of Dean Schlichter is Charles Schlichter, a dean at the University of Wisconsin in the 1920s, while still expressing uncertainty about his identity.
- There is a request for a copy of the referenced volume of "The Mathematics Teacher" to further investigate the quote's origins.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the identity of Dean Schlicter or the authenticity of the quotation. Multiple competing views and uncertainties remain regarding the attribution and historical context.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations in the discussion regarding the lack of definitive information about Dean Schlicter and the potential for the quotation to be misattributed. The discussion relies on historical references that are not fully verified.
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