Time: 4:30 - 5:30 PM,
Dates: Tuesday Weekly
Location: MATH 215
Class Code: MA 598SMH
In this semester’s Math History Seminar, we feature the birth of various mathematical domains and topics, ranging from the ancient era to the modern age. Feel free to join if you are interested. We are also looking for speakers who want to share the beginnings of their mathematical fields!
Date: 9/2
Speaker: Stanley Gao
Abstract: Zero is one of humanity’s strangest and most powerful inventions. It’s not obvious that “nothing” should be represented by a mark, let alone that this mark would become a cornerstone of numeral system, algebra, and modern mathematics. This talk traces the earliest history of zero: from ancient counting systems about the idea, to the Babylonian placeholder, to the radical conceptual leap in India that treated zero as a number in its own right. We’ll also examine early appearances in Mayan civilization and the slow, reluctant adoption of zero in Europe. The goal is not just a historical survey but a deeper appreciation of how alien the idea once was—and how foundational it became.
Date: 9/9
Speaker: Dr. James Cumberbatch
Abstract: TBA
Date: 9/16
Speaker: Geoffrey Baring
Abstract: TBA
Date: 9/23
Speaker: General Ozochiawaeze
Abstract: TBA
Date: 9/30
Speaker: TBA
Abstract: TBA