Die, my dear? Why that's the last thing I'll do!
It should seem that it is easier to square the circle than to get round a mathematician.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote humorously suggests that dealing with mathematicians can be more challenging than solving complex mathematical problems.
Augustus De Morgan's quote implies that mathematicians can be difficult to reason with or persuade, likening the challenge of convincing them to the impossible task of squaring a circle, which is a famous problem in mathematics that cannot be solved. This highlights the often rigid thinking and stubbornness associated with specialists in technical fields, and it brings a humorous perspective to the complexities of intellectual discussions.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote during a mathematics class to lighten the mood while discussing the challenges of mathematical reasoning.
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