MTE1501 Assignment 3 2025 Due 15 July 2025

MTE1501 Assignment 3 2025
Contributes 30% to final pass mark
Unique Number: 212545
Due date: 15 July 2025 at 11:30
3.1 LU1: MATHEMATICS IN SOCIETY
Read section 1.3.1: Defining Mathematics – in your study guide and provide the
differences between the three views used to outline the mathematics
consideration.

1. Instrumentalist View (Toolbox View)
This view sees mathematics as a toolbox. It focuses on rules, formulas, and procedures
that are used to solve problems. People who see mathematics this way believe
Mathematics is a set of instruments or tools for doing calculations and solving problems.
The main goal is to get the correct answer using the right formula.
There is one correct way to solve each problem.
For example solving a math problem by applying a known formula without
understanding why the formula works. (MTE1501/1, 2024:31)

2. Platonist View (Mathematics as a Discovery)
In this view, mathematics is seen as a body of knowledge that exists independently of
human thought, and people discover it. Mathematics is considered