Mathematics and Theology Blossoming Together - 628 Words

Mathematics and theology have blossomed together throughout history with many great mathematicians also being great theologians. However, in the modern scientific era, mathematics has become by and large secularized in mainstream academia. Although the secularization of mathematics seems to ignore mathematics’ metaphysical value, in truth, this secularization allows for mathematics to act as a universal tool and allows the individual to attach his or her own personal truths without marginalizing the beliefs of others, especially in education. In addition, attaching one’s personal beliefs to systems of math and logic may lead to contradicting interpretations of the material when taken into the larger context of society, such as with the concept of infinity, the meaning of truth and proof, or even the source of mathematics itself. In essence, the secularization of mathematics is a necessity in our modern dynamic world and in order for mathematics to maintain its effectiv eness as a universal tool our personal beliefs must not be attached to mathematics as a whole. To begin with, a proper definition of secularization is necessary in order to establish the correct connotation for the term. As denoted by the world renowned scholar in the study of the sociology of religion, Jose Casanova, secularization is spoken of in three senses: a.) Secularization as the decline of religious beliefs and practices in modern societies, often postulated as a universal, human, developmental