Why have I suddenly developed an interest in math through studying physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the unexpected development of interest in mathematics through the study of physics. Participants explore personal experiences and reflections on how engagement with physics may alter perceptions of mathematics, particularly in relation to its application and depth.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a newfound interest in math linked to their pursuit of physics, questioning whether it stems from a love for complexity or a desire to improve their mathematical skills.
  • Another participant suggests that many people may dislike a subject until they find a practical application for it.
  • A different viewpoint indicates that the type of mathematics encountered can significantly influence interest, citing personal experiences with more advanced and rigorous mathematical texts as a turning point.
  • One participant mentions creating a book aimed at making mathematics more engaging and accessible, particularly for those who have been deterred by traditional high school approaches.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally share a common theme of discovering interest in mathematics through its application in physics, but there are differing opinions on the reasons behind this shift and the types of mathematics that are engaging.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reflect on their past experiences with mathematics in high school, suggesting that earlier educational approaches may have contributed to their initial dislike. There is also mention of varying levels of mathematical rigor and its impact on interest, which remains an unresolved aspect of the discussion.

Tyrion101
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i have always hated math with a passion, but for whatever reason my decision to make an attempt at physics (obviously not right off) has sparked my interest, is it just my love for complicated things? or the determination that i have to not be awful at math anymore? or what?
 
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Tyrion101 said:
i have always hated math with a passion, but for whatever reason my decision to make an attempt at physics (obviously not right off) has sparked my interest, is it just my love for complicated things? or the determination that i have to not be awful at math anymore? or what?
Imho, yes.
 
Many times someone will hate something until they find a use for it.
 
Maybe it's because you're doing different maths?

In high school I found maths boring because it was mainly 'remember this formula' and 'add numbers to other numbers'

I started to like maths once I read Mary Boas' Mathematical Methods book and Gilbert Strang's Introduction to Linear Algebra book and I started to see that maths wasn't just what it seemed to be when I was in high school.
Later on I picked up a book called 'The Theory of Sets' by the Bourbaki group and I've been hooked ever since.

For this reason I've been putting together a small book, that covers the standard syllabus but goes into more rigour, for some friends of mine who seem like they may be interested in 'real' maths but are put off by the high school stylings of it. I'm also hoping that it'll give anyone who reads it at least a little of that 'mathematical maturity' every other book talks about.
 

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