MATH IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF LIFE

Every single day, we encounter problems or situations dealing with Mathematics (Math),
especially in this era of tremendous technological advancement. Changes are inevitable and are
slowly affecting our lives by one way or another. To be able to keep our pace in this fast-
changing world, we need not only basic computational skills but also the ability to become
analytical and critical to solve real-life problems. In other words, we must possess mathematical
abilities to find solutions to problems we encounter in our daily lives. To do that, we must first
establish a solid foundation of the value of Mathematics in our life and in the society as a whole.
Basically, we must first learn the definition of Math before we can identify its significance
in our lives. In our discussion of the different definitions of Mathematics in our class, I recall
that Math is developed by our human mind and culture (Stewart, 1995). Therefore, Mathematics
is intrinsic and plays an integral part on our existence as humans. To put it simply, let me liken
Math to blood and oxygen—without it, we cannot live or survive.
Now, let me identify and elaborate three among the almost infinite values of
Mathematics in our lives and society. To begin with, Math teaches us how to solve real-life
problems. Secondly, Math contributes to our economic development. Lastly, Math satisfies our
curiosity.
Math teaches us how to solve real-life problems. When we’ve started learning
Mathematics, we knew that problem-solving activities are always involved and it’s actually quite
beneficial. Problem-solving activities give us the opportunity to make our own decisions about
how we solve problems because in Math, there are several ways on how to deal with a given
problem. Similarly, in life, we face different situations and we are given ample choices on how we
face those situations.
Math contributes to our economic development. As was tackled before in our class,
Mathematics is a language; in the economic world, Math is actually considered as the global
language. Using mathematical tools, we can take economic insights and monitor or predict the
status of our economy. For example, economists often use what are called fixed point theorems
to prove the existence of equilibrium in an economy (Chen, 2019). These and others help us
better understand our economy and think of ways on how to make economic progress.
Math satisfies our curiosity. Obviously, Mathematics helps us find answers from the
easiest to the most complex of questions. Try to ask yourself these questions: If there are no
numbers, how do I know my age or what day it is? How can I accurately tell time without using
numbers? How will I count without numbers, in the first place? And so on and so forth. Hence,
numbers which is a fundamental part of Mathematics are important.
Furthermore, how we handle situations or solve problems do not only affect us
individually. It affects our family as well and it doesn’t stop there; it affects our community and
the society as a whole. So, if we rely on Mathematics to handle situations or solve problems,
there will always be a domino effect, be it positive or negative.
Thus, Mathematics is so much more than what we think it is. Although many people
despise it for its nature and for any other reason, we cannot deny the fact that Math is essential
and it’s a rudimental part of our lives. To reiterate, Mathematics teaches us how to solve real-life
problems, contributes to our economic development and satisfies our curiosity. Whether we
accept it or not, we cannot survive without Math.