Axioms are starting points that are assumed to be true, in order to build up logical reasoning. Therefore, we can conclude that every theory in mathematics is based on axioms. However, mathematics is not just a group of conjectures that humans set out to prove, it is much more than that. I believe there is much more to mathematics than the human mind has discovered. The concept of probability, for example, if used correctly, can help people win horse races. So, how can we know for sure whether or not there is a way through mathematics, to solve big problems like climate change? According to the Platonic view of mathematics, mathematics is built into every aspect of nature. The perfect shape of a sunflower and the dimensions of a uterus, are clear examples of math being the basis of everything. So, is it possible for math to eventually answer some of the biggest questions in the universe, such as how it was created?
A concept related to mathematics is the Mathematical Method. It is a diagrammatic representation of the use of deductive reasoning to form mathematical conjectures. Deductive reasoning is the use of general information, such as the angles in a square add up to 360 degrees and the a triangle is half of a square, to conclude something more specific and small, such as ,therefore all the angles in a triangle must add up to 180 degrees. The most intriguing part about this however, is that is has been used to show the use of mathematics in emotional situations. An example of this is the use of an equation including body conditions and facial expressions in a psychological study about long-term relationships. Through converting the subjects’ emotions into numbers, the psychologists could accurately predict whether or not a couple would break up or divorce. If mathematics is the basis of the Universe and physical nature, how can we deny that it could be the basis of abstract elements like human behaviour? After all, there could be somethings that the human mind cannot fathom.
However, the title that mathematics has of being the most useful subject is not entirely accurate. Knowing the answers of the way the Universe works may give the human race satisfaction but it would take away focus from the little things in our lives, such as the things that only humans are able to do. For example, simple subjects such as art and communication. It could be argued that art is in everything and everything involves mathematics, therefore, art is based on mathematics. But by equating the two subjects, how can we decide that one is more useful than the other? Should we focus on the technicalities of mathematics that we have to look for? Or should we focus on the feelings that art evokes simply through the use of our senses? Does this mean that our purpose lies in either of one these subjects? Or are they, rather than being a spectrum, a circle that merge their fundamental ideas at their extreme?
