Instructor: Dr. Manil Suri
Click here for detailed schedule.
Basic Information
- Dr. Manil Suri, suri@umbc.edu, MP 419
Office hours (on Bbd Collaborate, via appt): MW 4:00-5:00 (send me an email to set up an appt – emails are answered right away during office hours, unless I am helping someone). - Classes: MW 2:30-3:45 in AOK (library) 216M (First lecture, on 8/31 only, will be online, Bbd Collaborate.)
- Text: “The Big Bang of Numbers: How to Build the Universe Using Only Math” by Manil Suri, available through the UMBC bookstore.
- Syllabus: We will cover the whole book (see detailed schedule).
- Prerequisites: ENGL 100 with a grade of ‘C’ or better and admission to the Honors College.
Course Description
Could one design the universe using just mathematics? That’s the question we’ll explore in this seminar. Numbers will be the starting point – we’ll see how they can be created, quite literally, from “nothing.” Next, to create empty space, we’ll need the extra notion of a “point,” from which we’ll be able to construct length, area, volume, and all of geometry. Circles and squares are somewhat routine, so in addition to them, we’ll also generate more exotic fractal shapes that the universe will need. Then comes physics – and some hard choices. What alternative to select for distance, whether to use “curved” geometry or not, whether to make the universe finite or infinite. Our program of active exploration will not only teach us about mathematics, but also about its connections with other fields – like science, philosophy and art. The ultimate goal will be to understand and appreciate how math is woven into our universe’s very fabric.
The course will be about mathematical ideas, rather than calculation – so no prior math knowledge beyond high school algebra will be assumed. Both experts and novices can expect new discoveries and insights through our explorations. What everyone will need to bring to the course is the curiosity and time it takes to unlock math’s secrets.
Learning Goals
The general goals of this course are to gain knowledge and appreciation of how mathematics can be built up step-by step, and how it permeates our universe. More specifically, by the end of the course you will
- develop a higher level of mathematical reasoning ability (topics such as the axiomatic basis of math, “set theory” definition of numbers, fractals, non-Euclidean geometry and countable/uncountable infinity will contribute to this).
- acquire content-based knowledge that can be practically applied outside this course (e.g. mechanisms through which mathematics shapes physical processes as discussed in the section on patterns).
- enhance your problem-solving, analytic and critical thinking/logical abilities (mathematical problems will contribute to this, as will “thinking outside the box” qualitative problems, which play an essential role in building up mathematics from its basics).
- gain insight in how mathematical reasoning is utilized in other disciplines (in particular, connections with physics, biology and philosophical issues will be emphasized throughout).
- learn more about the nature and history of mathematics (this includes philosophical questions such as whether it is discovered [like a science] or invented [like a language]).
- enhance your oral and written communication skills (class discussions, assignments and a final project will contribute to this).
Class Structure and Assignments
READING QUIZ: You will be responsible for reading the assigned chapters of the text before class (consult detailed schedule). Each chapter has a reading quiz (ReadChap1, ReadChap2, etc.), which you must complete before class time to get any credit.
CLASS DISCUSSIONS AND CLASS ASSIGNMENTS: The class will be divided into groups for many of the discussion activities. Be sure to let everyone in your group speak, and make sure everyone is following along. Each chapter (or two) will have a class assignment available through Blackboard (ClassChap1, ClassChap2, etc.). These will often based on some of the extra material introduced in class. Most of these assignments will be group submissions, and will be partially completed in class.
ESSAY: This mid-semester assignment will be an opportunity to reflect more deeply on some of the material we cover, as well as do extra research. Feedback will be provided, and you will be able to resubmit the essay.
FINAL PROJECT: This will include both a written and a presentation component, and will generally be in collaboration with another student. The aim of the project will be to extend some aspect of the course in a way that is still accessible to non-mathematicians.
Grading
This apportioning may change, as might the cut-offs.
- Reading quizzes: 20% (All quizzes are counted, lowest grades will not be dropped.)
- Class Assignments: 20%
- Essay Draft: 25%
- Final Project: 25%
- Attendance and Class Participation: 10%
- Cut-offs: A: 90%, B: 80%, C: 65%, D: 55%.
Important Dates
Wed, Sep 14 is the last date to drop a class without a W on your transcript. Wed, Nov 9 is the last date to drop this class with a grade of W. Please do not hesitate to talk to me if you need some guidance on how to proceed regarding these dates.
Academic Conduct
Although you are encouraged to collaborate with others, please note that copying answers off the web or from another student’s HW is plagiarism. Such activity may trigger an academic misconduct report, as would help obtained from others during tests and the final. The following applies:
“By enrolling in this course, each student assumes the responsibilities of an active participant in UMBC’s scholarly community in which everyone’s academic work and behavior are held to the highest standards of honesty. Cheating, fabrication, plagiarism, and helping others to commit these acts are all forms of academic dishonesty, and they are wrong. Academic misconduct could result in disciplinary action that may include, but is not limited to, suspension or dismissal. To read the full Student Academic Conduct Policy, consult the UMBC Student Handbook, the Faculty Handbook, or the UMBC Policies section of the UMBC Directory.”
Accommodations for Disability
If you require accommodations for this class based on disability, please inform me of your SSS-approved accommodations (that may be forthcoming). Please see http://my.umbc.edu/groups/sss/documents/838 for more information.
Fall 2022 Safety Protocols and Compliance Statement
Please click here.