Volume
22
Issue
1-2
Abstract
In this paper I argue for the value of reading primary historical texts in mathematics courses. In particular, I show how close readings of Bolzano’s 1817 paper on the Intermediate Value Theorem in an introductory analysis course helps students understand the working use of fundamental analytic concepts and problems. I further argue that the philosophical purpose of reading primary texts is the “desedimentation” of knowledge, a process through which students come to understand the origins of mathematical concepts as solutions to historical problems.
First Page
81
Last Page
94
Recommended Citation
Duffee, Anne
(2025)
"From Geometric Intuition to Arithmetical Rigor: Teaching Analysis with Bolzano’s Original Text,"
The Mathematics Enthusiast: Vol. 22
:
No.
1
, Article 5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54870/1551-3440.1652
Available at:
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/tme/vol22/iss1/5
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.54870/1551-3440.1652
Publisher
University of Montana, Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library
