👉 Mathematics varies significantly across different cultures and historical periods, reflecting unique needs, philosophies, and contexts. For instance, ancient Babylonians used a base-60 number system, which influenced their advanced astronomical calculations and timekeeping. In contrast, ancient Egyptians employed a decimal system with hieroglyphic symbols, making arithmetic more cumbersome but intuitive for practical tasks like construction and trade. Islamic mathematicians during the Golden Age introduced algebra as a formal discipline, revolutionizing problem-solving with symbols and equations. Meanwhile, non-Western cultures like the Mayans developed unique calendrical systems based on cyclical observations, while modern mathematics has evolved to include abstract concepts like topology and set theory, which have no direct practical counterparts in everyday life. These differences highlight how mathematical practices are deeply intertwined with cultural, social, and environmental factors, shaping diverse approaches to understanding and solving problems.
