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Writer's pictureOmayra Ortega

On Definition of "Mathematician"

Abstract: The definition of who is or what makes a “mathematician” is an important issue

to be addressed in the mathematics community. Too often, a narrower definition of who is considered a mathematician (and what is considered mathematics) is used to exclude people from the discipline—both explicitly and implicitly.

However, using a narrow definition of a mathematician allows us to highlight,

examine, and challenge systemic barriers that exist in certain spaces of the community. This paper analyzes and illuminates tensions between narrow and broad

definitions and how they can be used to promote both inclusion and exclusion

simultaneously. In this article, we present a framework of definitions based on

identity, function, and qualification and explore several different meanings of

mathematician. By interrogating various definitions, we highlight their risks and

opportunities, with an emphasis on implications for broadening and/or narrowing

participation of underrepresented groups in the mathematics community.




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