First proofs: Thales and the beginnings of geometry

Proof-oriented geometry began with Thales. The theorems attributed to him encapsulate two modes of doing mathematics, suggesting that the idea of proof could have come from either of two sources: attention to patterns and relations that emerge from explorative construction and play, or the realisation that “obvious” things can be demonstrated using formal definitions and … <a href="https://intellectualmathematics.com/blog/first-proofs-thales-and-the-beginnings-of-geometry/" class="more-link">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">First proofs: Thales and the beginnings of geometry</span></a>