History and Philosophy of Mathematics

History and mathematics usually remain quite separate in most curricula. These sites correct that view and by showing the evolution of thought could stimulate students, even below college level, to imagine the next stage in the development of mathematics.

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Cut-the-Knot

Cut-the-knot, an award-winning site, explores geometry, algebra, and special topics like probability. The best aspect of this site is the reflective perspective of its developer and his dose of philosophy of math. While the interactive examples no longer function (Java is no longer available on most browsers), the explanations and descriptions are well written and…  learn more

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Islamic Mathematics

While not well covered today, while Europe was in the middle of the Dark Ages, mathematics flourished in Islamic areas including Africa and the Middle East. During this time, they made significant contributions towards mathematics, drawing on and fusing together the mathematical developments of both Greece and India.  learn more

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Museo Galileo

Part of the Museum of the History of Science in Florence, Italy, this site is a virtual copy exhibits dedicated to Galileo Galilei. You can view recreations of Galileo's actual facilities, details of the tools he invented or inspired, videos, biographies and a glossary of terms.  learn more

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The Galileo Project

The life and times of Galileo is explored in-depth at the Rice University site. Of particular interest is the information about his own laboratory and instruments. Maps, timelines and excerpts from the famous trial are also provided. A very thorough view of the history of this period which could be a model for other studies…  learn more