SYSK Choice: How to Fix a Broken Heart & A Journey Through Numbers

Origins

Alex Bellos takes us back to the origins of numbers, tracing them to ancient Sumer around 6000-7000 years ago. He explains how early civilizations developed symbols and words for numbers, with the first word for 'one' being the same as 'man' and 'two' as 'woman' 1. Alex also highlights the revolutionary concept of zero, which emerged in India about 1500 years ago, influenced by spiritual ideas of nothingness 2.

The reason why we need zero is because it makes counting so much easier and makes arithmetic so much easier.

--- Alex Bellos

Without zero, our current positional number system would be far more complex and cumbersome.

   

Counting Systems

Counting systems have evolved significantly over time. Alex explains that the earliest system used by the Sumerians was base 60, which is why we have 60 seconds in a minute and 60 minutes in an hour today 3. He contrasts this with our current base 10 system, chosen for its simplicity due to our ten fingers.

The one which is the most sensible really, is base ten. And that's not because there's anything arithmetically good about ten. It's because it's easiest for us to learn because we've got ten fingers.

--- Alex Bellos

Interestingly, Alex notes that a base 12 system would make arithmetic even easier, as more numbers would divide evenly into 12.

   

Randomness

Alex delves into the concept of randomness, illustrating common misconceptions. He uses the example of coin flips to show how humans often fail to grasp true randomness, expecting patterns where none exist 4. He also discusses how early iPod shuffle features had to be adjusted because true randomness led to repeated songs, which users found frustrating 5.

We don't really want mathematical randomness, we want variety.

--- Alex Bellos

This misunderstanding of randomness can lead to flawed decision-making, such as believing a slot machine is 'due' for a payout.