Published Sep 5, 2024

Math for English majors

Ben Orlin reimagines math as a language, using familiar linguistic concepts to explore the flexibility and depth of mathematics, while tackling the complexities of negative numbers and the role of historical and ongoing debates in shaping our mathematical understandings.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Math as Language
01
Conceptual Challenges
02

Popular Clips

Questions from this episode

- Can math be seen as a language?
  Asked by 6 people
- What are some good math problem-solving techniques?
  Asked by 6 people
- How to learn math effectively?
  Asked by 2 people
- What are some other mental math tricks?
  Asked by 1 person
- How do you tackle tasks you dread, such as doing math if you hate it?
  Asked by 1 person
- I am very sensitive in nature, and I suspect this is the reason behind my mild social anxiety. What happens to me is that whenever I am asked a question or put in a situation where I need to answer a question in front of a human being or a group of people, I end up getting really anxious, especially when the question is related to arithmetic. On the other hand, when I am alone, I can solve the same questions pretty easily. What can I do about my social anxiety?
  Asked by 1 person
- What are some math tips and tricks for doing mental math, such as percentages?
  Asked by 1 person
- How to get good at math
  Asked by 1 person

Episode Highlights

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Dexa/Life Kit

Math for English majors

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Mastering Mental Math

Embracing Math Confusion

Numbers as Nouns

Embracing Negative Numbers

Calculating Knowledge

Math Made Simple

Nouns of Math

Questions from this episode

Can math be seen as a language?

What are some good math problem-solving techniques?

How to learn math effectively?

What are some other mental math tricks?

How do you tackle tasks you dread, such as doing math if you hate it?

What are some math tips and tricks for doing mental math, such as percentages?

How to get good at math

Episode Highlights

Math as Language

Conceptual Challenges

Related Episodes

A Simple Equation to Help Kids Love Math

Raising Kids Who Love Math — Even If You Don't

Improve your chances of learning a new skill

How To Learn A New Skill

Making Online College Work For You

The Emotions Behind Money

Money Talks: How To Teach Kids About Finance

How To Do Well (And Be Happy!) In College

What to know and how to talk about disability

How to learn your parents' language

Storytelling 101

Mindfulness For Beginners

Study Strategies That Keep You From Getting Overwhelmed

Helpful financial advice for creative types

Your Plan To Become Debt-Free

Math for English majors

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Questions from this episode

Episode Highlights

Math as LanguageBen Orlin reimagines math as a language, where numbers are nouns and operations are verbs, offering a fresh perspective on understanding mathematics. He explores alternative viewpoints, suggesting that math can be as flexible and multifaceted as language itself.

Math as Language

Conceptual ChallengesBen Orlin explores the complexities of negative numbers and the evolving nature of mathematics. He highlights how historical skepticism and ongoing debates shape our understanding of math today.

Conceptual Challenges

Related Episodes