Writing popular history of mathematics – why is it important
Mathematics is often perceived as an abstract and inaccessible discipline, reserved for a select few. This view fuels widespread anxiety and disengagement. In this talk I will argue that integrating the history of mathematics with education can play a vital role in reshaping these perceptions. By exploring mathematics through historical development, we can move beyond the formulas and procedures to encounter mathematics as a deeply human endeavour, shaped by diverse cultures, practical needs, and intellectual curiosity. Examining questions such as what problems past mathematicians sought to solve, and what motivated their work, reveals mathematics as a dynamic and evolving discipline. From ancient Babylon to contemporary research breakthroughs, historical narratives highlight creativity, struggles, and discoveries as part of the wider history of the world.
Drawing on the ideas I presented in my latest book A Little History of Mathematics, this talk will also mention struggles I faced in researching and presenting episodes from the history of mathematics to cover its entire history. I will emphasise the importance of engaging not only students but wider public, including families, in mathematical thinking, and engaging such public to think about the development of this abstract art.
Snezana Lawrence is a mathematical historian, and was a teacher, teacher educator, and taught mathematics in schools and universities in England until recently. She specialises in mathematics of the revolutionary period in France, and more recently mathematics before and during the Cold War.Snezana was the Chair of the HPM (History and Pedagogy of Mathematics International Study Group, 2020-2024); first Education Officer of the BSHM (British Society for the History of Mathematics); and the Assistant Editor of the “British Journal for the History of Mathematics” (Taylor & Francis). She is particularly skilful in describing mathematical concepts in a captivating and easy-to-follow narrative. Her latest book is “A Little History of Mathematics” (Yale University Press, 2025).
