This post was inspired by Dataclysm: Who We Are (When We Think No One’s Looking) by OKCupid co-founder Christian Rudder, where he analyzes online data to find out that people who prefer beer are more likely to have sex on a first date. Join From Left to Write on October 9th as we discuss Dataclysm. As a member, I received a copy of the book for review purposes.
It is wonderful to sit down and examine the numbers behind our thoughts, ideas, and opinions. Numbers, numbers, numbers. I really like numbers. I am the kind of person who does Calculus for fun at home when I am bored. (Though with four kids, a husband, a dog and a cat, I don’t get bored often.) Often people are surprised to learn I like numbers because I like reading and writing so much.
Almost everyone knows the word “illiterate” which is the word used to describe a person who is unable to read or write. The word is commonly known because in most circles people are expected to be able to read and write. Fewer people know the word “innumerate” which is the word used to describe a person who does not have a basic knowledge of mathematics. It is interesting to talk with people who are illiterate and innumerate. In my circle and sphere of travel, people who are illiterate are ashamed and do not want people to know they are illiterate. Being illiterate is often a source of shame or embarrassment. Things are very different when I talk with people who are innumerate. People in my circle and sphere of travel laugh at their innumeracy. They feel no shame or embarrassment about not understanding numbers, mathematical concepts and the use and manipulation of numbers.
Numerical fluency and understanding of basic mathematical concepts are actually important. Numeracy is the difference between understanding the statistics that get thrown around and being fooled by them. I am not suggesting that everyone needs to do Calculus for entertainment. (I do recognize that is weird and nerdy, but I like it.) But, we all need to have some basic math knowledge in our tool belts. While I am never called upon to use what I learned in trigonometry, I use ratio and proportion almost every day of my life. I use it to figure out how many stitches I should use in knitting since the yarn I am using is different from what the pattern recommends. I use ration and proportion to figure out how much water I should add when making grits when I make 3 servings instead of the 1,2 or 4 servings that have instructions on the box. Ratio and proportion is my favorite thing from all my math classes.
[Tweet “I like ratio and proportion and I cannot lie. Fear of numbers has passed me by!”]
In conclusion, it is wonderful to sit down and examine the numbers behind our thoughts, ideas, and opinions. So, the question for you this wonderful day is, what do you do when confronted with the numbers in a situation?
Her job is so important! Too many children leave school unable to balance a checkbook, figure out a tip in their heads or figure out sales discounts. These are important life skills.
Great post. My youngest daughter will love it. She teaches Highschool math.
i have never really looked into it, interesting topic.
You are like my husband. Boy he reads a lot and eats numbers a lot. I am not that kind of person and I’m jealous 😀
Numbers can tell us many things. At the same time, it can stop us from seeing PEOPLE.
Oy… numbers. I like them when they have dead presidents on them in my wallet 😉 I know, I’m such a stereotype, but I am so not a numbers kinda gal. My husband, he’s the numbers dude and enjoys connecting the dots.
It does irritate me when I hear you will never use Math after school-so untrue!!
I’m not good with numbers and was never great at math. Basic math I can handle but anything else no so much!
First and foremost kudos to you for keeping a well run household! OK, you and my husband both love numbers! I on the other hand do not but have learned that you must utilize numbers in daily life. I grew up having Dyslexia and ADD, and math and spelling has never come easy to me. There will always be people that don’t try to learn basic math, which is really sad. I too was unfamiliar with the term “innumerate” but know exactly what you’re talking about.
It’s so important to keep up with basic math! I recently stumped on a (formerly) simple math question and I was definitely embarrassed! It taught me that I need to brush up on my skills!
It is funny to see where numbers intersect with art. I remember getting a thrill when reading about Fibonocci numbers in art, flowers and knitting patterns.
A lot of people like to shop. Maybe if they know they can calculate sales prices and tax like you do, they will get on board with us!
Amy, I like your attitude!
We have something in common, my husband is also an accountant.
Well I went to a math and science high school, so needless to say, I’m pretty comfortable manipulating digits. I love to see girls who are into math. They are sure to live productive lives.
I have not heard of the term innumerate. It is so important to have knowledge of numbers for everyday life. I have not always been the best at math.
I wish I could say I love numbers. Haha!
Janeane I am like you! I LOVE numbers. I love how they fit together and understand how important they are for everyday functions! I can go to a store and calculate 30% off the clearance price in like 2 seconds and am marveled when people can’t do the same.
I love numbers but oh how I wish I understood some better 😉
I learned enough about numbers to do well in school,. but I am far from a number lover. I just have never really understood them the way I do words.
I don’t like numbers but I agree with dawn if it’s money then I like numbers 🙂
Very interesting. I like equations that have a true answer… I get frustrated at anything that doesn’t ha!
I like numbers if it means a paycheck or gaining more followers/ viewers ;D! Great post!
Numbers are at the core of everything… Numbers, numbers, numbers!
I’ve never really been a fan of numbers myself especially since I hated Math all through HS and College.
If the numbers relate to bills, I get sick to my stomach if they are large amounts. If they pertain to a winning then woot!
I deal with numbers every day! I can’t get away from them. I too love math. Thanks for sharing!
I like numbers too 🙂 But I would never be caught doing calculus at home for fun… I don’t have the brains for that!
I always loved geometry in school, but couldn’t quite understand the other math subjects. Now I understand more, but struggle to explain it to my kids.
I wasn’t too interested in Math until I was a grown up and numbers were all around me. You are right!
I Love numbers I don’t know why but I’ve even done a few art projects for my house using numbers that have a significant meaning to my family.
I know number are important, but I’ve never been one to cozy up to them. I don’t love math…
Me 2. (See what I did there??) Never thought growing up I’d be a numbers person but I certainly am one now.
Very interesting – I am so not good with numbers! Wish I was!
I wish I liked numbers but I am a words girl all the way!
Numbers are good sometimes but they can drive me crazy. Sometimes I think about numbers too much at bedtime.
I am ok with numbers, would rather not remember trying to do calc in college. I love writing but math is something I have a hard time with. As a former teacher, I know its’ importance though.
I LOVE calculus too, and algebra? Swoon. So so SO nice to meet another math geek 🙂 And yes, I consider that a compliment.
Numbers do lie! The thing is we don’t always realize how many decisions are fully numbers based. Especially with health decisions by governments and companies.
I can not do math to save my life. Thankfully I am married to an Accountant, so I never have to 🙂
Numbers are defiantly not my thing They get all crazy in my head.
I love numbers too!
What a fun post! And, you are right…I am unfamiliar with the term ‘“innumerate”. Math has always rubbed me the wrong way, whereas my Mom is like you and enjoys figuring out the ‘riddle’ of it all.
I enjoy the riddle of number. I like being able to keep up with all the “new” math so my kids don’t have that to tease me about.
What a great point you make! I’ve always loved numbers too (and still do) but Calculus never quite connected in my head. I blame it on my professor–she was so smart, she had a hard time breaking it down for us.