Mathematics and Society: Numbers and Measures in Early Modern South India

This book explores the regional tradition of mathematics in Tamil-speaking areas of Southern India, challenging the established Bhatta-Bhaskara tradition and highlighting the roles of practitioners like village accountants and school teachers. It examines mathematics in precolonial Tamil society, its practices under colonial rule, and the social history of mathematics in India.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2022
Publisher: OUP India

This book delves into the rich tapestry of mathematics in the Tamil-speaking regions of Southern India, challenging the conventional narrative of Indian mathematics' historical development. Instead of solely relying on the Bhatta-Bhaskara tradition, it sheds light on the roles of practitioners such as village accountants and school teachers as primary agents in the mathematical practices of precolonial Tamil society. The author embarks on a meticulous exploration of these hitherto unexplored historical sources, presenting them in a fresh and illuminating perspective. Through his insightful analysis, he delves into the realm of mathematics in various contexts, including workplaces, schools, and village squares, shedding light on the social and cultural significance of mathematics in precolonial Tamil society. Furthermore, the author delves into the impact of colonialism on these mathematical practices, unveiling a captivating social history of mathematics in India. This book is a valuable contribution to the field, offering a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the mathematical traditions of Southern India.

This book explores the regional tradition of mathematics in the Tamil-speaking areas of Southern India, challenging the established notion of Indian mathematics' historical development. Instead of solely relying on the Bhatta-Bhaskara tradition, it sheds light on the roles of practitioners such as village accountants and school teachers as primary agents in the mathematical practices of precolonial Tamil society. The author embarks on a meticulous exploration of these hitherto unexplored historical sources, presenting them in a fresh and illuminating perspective. Through his insightful analysis, he delves into the realm of mathematics in various contexts, including workplaces, schools, and village squares, shedding light on the social and cultural significance of mathematics in precolonial Tamil society. Furthermore, the author delves into the impact of colonialism on these mathematical practices, unveiling a captivating social history of mathematics in India. This book is a valuable contribution to the field, offering a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the mathematical traditions of Southern India.

ISBN-13: 9788194831600