"The early study of Euclid made me a hater of geometry"
- James Joseph Sylvester
About this Quote
This quote by James Joseph Sylvester suggests that his early study of Euclid's geometry had an unfavorable impact on his mindset towards the topic. It suggests that the problem of the product or the method it was taught triggered him to establish a dislike for geometry. It could likewise recommend that he discovered the subject to be too abstract or too theoretical, which it did not have any practical applications. This might be a reflection of the method mathematics was taught in the 19th century, when Sylvester was a student. It could also be a reflection of Sylvester's own battles with the topic, as he was understood to be a brilliant mathematician. Whatever the factor, it is clear that Sylvester's early study of Euclid's geometry had a long lasting impact on his mindset towards the subject.
About the Author