Why mathematics needs the humanities

Matthew Szudzik

Abstract:
Are the rules of mathematics the rules of a mindless game played with
symbols on a page?  Some might say "yes", because as mathematics has
become increasingly abstract over the centuries, it's become harder to
see any meaning behind it.  With anecdotes from his experiences teaching
calculus to humanities students at Carnegie Mellon University, Matthew
Szudzik argues that mathematics needs the humanities in order to avoid a
future devoid of meaning.