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Show Cultural Lag Slows Math Concept OK America traced the development of mathematics from the initial recognition by all known cultures cul-tures of numerals and a "one-two "one-two differentation" to a science with logical definitions and analysis. The place value system, extended ex-tended to fractions, is the most important contribution of the Babylonians to math, Wilder said. WILDER ALSO emphasized the power of mysticism on mathematics. Seven, was a favored fa-vored number. The philosopher Hegal, under the influence of this belief in the magic number seven, refuted the theory that there were more than seven-planets. seven-planets. The basic principles governing govern-ing the acceptance of a new mathematical concept, according accord-ing to Wilder, are utility, need, mode of expression or symbolism, symbol-ism, the condition of environment environ-ment (static or dynamic), government gov-ernment attitude toward science and free expression. Crisis is another factor which Wilder said greatly influences the development de-velopment of a mathematical concept. If an existing concept is insufficient or inconsistant, scientifists will seek another theory, another concept, to explain ex-plain the "facts." The acceptance of a mathematical mathe-matical concept depends on its usefulness, not its origin nor metaphysical connotations stated Dr. Raymond L. Wilder, University of Michigan mathematics mathe-matics research professor. DR. WILDER spoke yesterday on anthropological evolution of mathematical concepts to an audience that filled Orson Spencer Spen-cer Auditorium. His non-technical discussion was divided into three parts: the forces or means of change, the stages of mathematical development, develop-ment, and the principles or conditions con-ditions necessary for development. develop-ment. WILDER emphasized the effect ef-fect of cultural lag or resistance on the general acceptance of a mathematical concept. For instance, in-stance, said Wilder, the metric system now used by "our scientific sci-entific subculture" is not in general use due to cultural lag or resistance. By the means of diffusion, innovations and changes are spread within and between cultures. Other forces influential in the development of mathematical mathemati-cal concepts are: cultural stress, symbolism, abstraction, generalization, general-ization, consolidation, diversification diversifi-cation and selection. THE PRESIDENT of the Mathematical Association of |