Mathematics is the cheapest science. Unlike physics or chemistry, it does not require any expensive equipment. All one needs for mathematics is a pencil and paper.
Interpretation
Mathematics is an accessible science that requires minimal resources to practice.
This quote by George Polya emphasizes that mathematics is a unique field of study that can be pursued without the need for costly tools or labs, unlike other sciences such as physics or chemistry. It highlights the simplicity and accessibility of mathematics, suggesting that anyone can engage with it using just basic materials like a pencil and paper, thereby democratizing the knowledge and exploration of this essential discipline.
In practice
In a lecture on the importance of education, this quote can be used to emphasize the accessibility of mathematics.
Pedantry and mastery are opposite attitudes toward rules. To apply a rule to the letter, rigidly, unquestioningly, in cases where it fits and in cases where it does not fit, is pedantry. [...] To apply a rule with natural ease, with judgment, noticing the cases where it fits, and without ever letting the words of the rule obscure the purpose of the action or the opportunities of the situation, is mastery.
If you wish to learn swimming you have to go into the water and if you wish to become a problem solver you have to solve problems.
To teach effectively a teacher must develop a feeling for his subject; he cannot make his students sense its vitality if he does not sense it himself. He cannot share his enthusiasm when he has no enthusiasm to share. How he makes his point may be as important as the point he makes; he must personally feel it to be important.
Mathematics is not a spectator sport!
Mathematics is being lazy. Mathematics is letting the principles do the work for you so that you do not have to do the work for yourself
In order to translate a sentence from English into French two things are necessary. First, we must understand thoroughly the English sentence. Second, we must be familiar with the forms of expression peculiar to the French language. The situation is very similar when we attempt to express in mathematical symbols a condition proposed in words. First, we must understand thoroughly the condition. Second, we must be familiar with the forms of mathematical expression.
Across much of the developing world, by the time she is 12, a girl is tending house, cooking, cleaning. She eats what's left after the men and boys have eaten; she is less likely to be vaccinated, to see a doctor, to attend school.
In an era ruled by materialism and unstable geopolitics, art must be restored to the center of public education.
I feel it is now my duty to speak to young women, to encourage them to have careers and, particularly, careers in science.
I have maintained a passionate interest in education, which leads me occasionally to make foolish and ill-considered remarks alleging that not everything is well in our schools. My main concern is that an over-emphasis on testing and league tables has led to a lack of time and freedom for a true, imaginative and humane engagement with literature.
Let us thank all those who teach in Catholic schools. Educating is an act of love; it is like giving life.
If you don't give your kid freedom to make choices with money, including stupid choices, he'll make plenty when he gets to college.
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