The two articles show how historical practices in measuring time and developing numerical systems are intertwined. The division of time into days, hours, and minutes has connections to the natural world and has evolved over time. It is an accumulation of astronomical observations, cultural practices, and historical developments. It is quite interesting how numbers like these may appear as simple or natural divisions, but they represent a story of refinement. Although the Babylonians used a base-60 sexagesimal system, it still influences how we measure time today. In fact, their historical number system reflects an extremely sophisticated understanding of mathematics and has left a lasting legacy on how we approach calculations and measurements. The remnants of their civilization can still be seen when it comes to angles, circles and spheres, and of course, time!
There seems to be different reasonings between the two articles when it comes to why a base-60 system was chosen. The first article simply suggests that it is because 60 is a convenient number to express multiple fractions. It also learns towards historical context and practical aspects of time keeping in a more general sense. The second article goes in more depth and provides various theories. It focuses more on the technical aspects of numerical systems and their mathematical implications.
Good points, JJ! It would be great if you can make connections to your own personal experiences and geometries for thinking about a year, a season, a month, an hour, etc. (as instructed in Susan's prompt for this post). How do you conceptualize time? Any memories of learning about time in school or at home?
ReplyDeleteHi JJ. Please follow Erica's suggestion in her comment above and add an **EDIT to raise the mark on this response from a 1.5 to a 2!
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