Science and an African Logic
Helen Verran
Sold by Kennys Bookshop and Art Galleries Ltd., Galway, GY, Ireland
AbeBooks Seller since 27 February 2001
New - Soft cover
Condition: New
Quantity: Over 20 available
Add to basketSold by Kennys Bookshop and Art Galleries Ltd., Galway, GY, Ireland
AbeBooks Seller since 27 February 2001
Condition: New
Quantity: Over 20 available
Add to basketDoes two and two equal four? Ask someone and they should answer yes. An equation such as this seems the very definition of certainty, but is it? Helen Verran describes how she went from the conclusion that logic and maths are culturally relative, to a new understanding of all generalizing logic. Num Pages: 282 pages, 9 line drawings, 7 tables. BIC Classification: 1HFDN; JHM; PBB; PDA. Category: (P) Professional & Vocational; (UP) Postgraduate, Research & Scholarly; (UU) Undergraduate. Dimension: 231 x 167 x 16. Weight in Grams: 400. . 2001. 1st Edition. Paperback. . . . .
Seller Inventory # V9780226853918
Does 2 + 2 = 4? Ask almost anyone and they will unequivocally answer yes. A basic equation such as this seems the very definition of certainty, but is it?
In this captivating book, Helen Verran addresses precisely that question by looking at how science, mathematics, and logic come to life in Yoruba primary schools. Drawing on her experience as a teacher in Nigeria, Verran describes how she went from the radical conclusion that logic and math are culturally relative, to determining what Westerners find so disconcerting about Yoruba logic, to a new understanding of all generalizing logic. She reveals that in contrast to the one-to-many model found in Western number systems, Yoruba thinking operates by figuring things as wholes and their parts. Quantity is not absolute but always relational. Certainty is derived not from abstract logic, but from cultural practices and associations.
A powerful story of how one woman's investigation in this everday situation led to extraordinary conclusions about the nature of numbers, generalization, and certainty, this book will be a signal contribution to philosophy, anthropology of science, and education.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Terms of Sale - Credit Cards: Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diner.
Payment can also be made by bank draft in Euros, drawn on an Irish Bank.
We regret that PO Boxes are not acceptable to the U.S. as our courier will not deliver to them.
In case of returns or queries please contact us by email books@kennys.ie or by phone +353 91 709350
VAT Registration - IE2238521A
Conor Kenny
Free Shipping
Order quantity | 12 to 20 business days | 10 to 18 business days |
---|---|---|
First item | £ 2.59 | £ 3.02 |
Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.