Why Do We Study Mathematics - A Philosophical and Historical Retrospect #261437

The most salient practical feature of all scientific thought is its economic or labor-saving purpose. Even our every-day modes of thinking are impregnated with this trait. Education itself largely consists of the inculcating of ready-made, snap judgments on men and events, on sociology and economics, on politics and history. Prejudice is the supreme type of ready intellectual power; the mightiest weapon in our logical arm ory: it is mental preparedness.