Article November 13, 1937 Issue

Reasoning from Principle

JAMES IRVING BURGESS

The serious study of mathematics elevates thought above the superficial into the realm of exact reasoning. It was DeQuincey who said, "Mathematics has not a foot to stand upon which is not purely metaphysical." The faithful employment of its rules purges thought of errors, and establishes accurate, logical deductions from right premises.

It is axiomatic that the correct answer to every proposition is established even before we commence our work. Mrs. Eddy illumines this point when she writes (Science and Health, p. 3): "Who would stand before a blackboard, and pray the principle of mathematics to solve the problem? The rule is already established, and it is our task to work out the solution." An intricate column of figures can be added now or a thousand years hence, and in every case throughout all time the one and only answer to that problem is fixed, immutable, and demonstrable.

Everyone realizes that the solution of a mathematical question is an interesting and enlightening experience. It arouses and invigorates accurate thinking. It demands not only a clear discernment, but an exact application of the rule, with the expectation of the correct solution. The step-by-step procedure, combined with alertness and obedience to the rule, detects the slightest intrusion of error. Should some inaccuracy creep into the work, the mistake does not invalidate the rule; and the mistake will be detected, for every conclusion in mathematics can be proved. Thus there is no doubt concerning the correct answer.

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