The Temperament of the Mathematician

It may be observed of mathematicians that they only meddle with such things as are certain, passing by those that are doubtful and unknown. They profess not to know all things, neither do they affect to speak of all things. What they know to be true, and can make good by invincible arguments, that they publish and insert among their theorems. Of other things they are silent and pass no judgment at all, chusing [choosing] rather to acknowledge their ignorance, than affirm anything rashly. They affirm nothing among their arguments or assertions which is not most manifestly known and examined with utmost rigour, rejecting all probable conjectures and little witticisms. They submit nothing to authority, indulge no affection, detest subterfuges of words, and declare their sentiments, as in a Court of Judicature [Justice], without passion, without apology; knowing that their reasons, as Seneca testifies of them, are not brought to persuade, but to compel.

Notes:

Always to acknowledge their ignorance and only indulge in those pursuits in which total certainty may be achieved.

Folksonomies: mathematics

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The usefulness of mathematical learning explained and demonstrated

Books, Brochures, and Chapters>Book: Barrow , Isaac (1734), The usefulness of mathematical learning explained and demonstrated, Retrieved on 2011-12-16

Source Material [books.google.com]

Folksonomies: mathematics