Euclid and Euclidean geometry history reminds me of the history
of Jesus Christ and the Catholic church. Some men imparted knowledge
and leadership. Those men left lessons in different fields, but their dedication
and ideas turned on the flame of curiosity and inspiration in others who
continued their work. On one hand, we have Euclid with a scientific approach and on
the other hand, Jesus with a spiritual approach. Both are remembered and followed
by people to our day.
I think the beauty of Euclidean postulates roots in its
validity throughout time and the simplicity of the proof procedures. Those
postulates invite us to think mathematically in a transcendental way.
Jimena, your reflection on the timelessness and simplicity of Euclid’s postulates is beautifully expressed. I especially like your idea that these principles invite us to think mathematically “in a transcendental way.”
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