We are where we are because of how we have used knowledge. Application of knowledge greatly benefits us because with it, knowledge can be spread and understood. One might argue that sharing something can devalue it but with knowledge, it is the opposite. In some areas of knowledge such as mathematics and natural sciences, the application of knowledge is important. In these areas, theories and laws are only supported when they are put to the test. Knowledge’s value comes from how it is applied and that is especially true when it comes to mathematics and natural sciences because those two areas of knowledge are dependent on the application of knowledge.
To what extent does practicing mathematics increase the value of knowledge? In mathematics, students learn from practicing over and over again when they acquire new information. For example, in my math class, when we are taught a new topic such as differential calculus, my teacher makes my class do practice problems in class so we understand the topic. By understanding how to differentiate equations, we know why it is valued so much. My teacher also makes sure to give us problems that deal with the “real world”, so to speak. While that is just in my math class, …show more content…
This happens in extreme cases. In the case of natural sciences, eugenics was a philosophy based off of social darwinism that had negative implications as well as negative consequences. Eugenics is “a movement that is aimed at improving the genetic composition of the human race. Historically, eugenicists advocated selective breeding to achieve these goals.” (Know Genetics). Hitler used this concept to justify his cleansing of Jews, as well as others deemed unfit by the Nazis to be on the Earth. In the U.S. during the 20th century, people were sterilized without permission. It started off with mentally ill people, then it gradually led to people who had traits that were “unworthy”. Most of these traits were acquired such as the people who were poor or promiscuous. Then, it veered off to target different races, mainly African Americans. The implementation of this philosophy was detrimental to all of society and exposed the racism prevalent in the States. It is generally agreed that when it comes to mathematics, equations that can lead to horrible consequences, even something such as mass destruction, is quite harmful. When knowledge is executed in a poor manner such as eugenics or mathematical equations that can be utilized destructively, it is best not to delve down those paths. When knowledge is used for selfish personal gain, it never ends well. This is reiterated by events in our past as well