It’s perhaps strange that for a subject that relies so strongly on mathematical proof, there is no right

or wrong answer when it comes to answering the question, “what is mathematics?” Aristotle defined
mathematics as “the science of quantity”, while Isidore Auguste Comte preferred calling it “the
science of indirect measurement” and Benjamin Peirce “the science that draws necessary
conclusions”.
The answer changes depending on the philosophical stance of the definer, and on the branch of
mathematics s/he wishes to focus on. And, as new branches of mathematics are discovered and
developed, the definition also continues to develop, adapt and change accordingly.

This is all, of course, part of the appeal of mathematics degrees. Follow our guide to find out more
about the world’s top universities for mathematics, high-level mathematics topics and
potential careers with a mathematics degree.