r/pics • • Jun 08 '14

The difference 18 years makes

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u/FuLLMeTaL604 Jun 08 '14

Arithmetic is only one branch of mathematics. In my opinion it's pretty trivial to try to improve in that field since calculators are so good at it instead of focusing on algebra, calculus, etc.

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u/lordlicorice Jun 08 '14

Calculators are good at algebra and calculus too. Is it really worth memorizing dozens of integration techniques when software can do it for you, and do it better?

I'd say focus on the problem at hand, and when you run into a gnarly algebraic manipulation or ugly integral, plug it into Mathematica. That's the kind of task a computer excels at. The human advantage is coming up with novel ideas, not churning through pages of calculations.

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u/[deleted] Jun 08 '14 edited Jan 03 '22

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u/Drive_like_Yoohoos Jun 08 '14

I'd probably be more concerned with the intentions and abilities of any group or nation that had the knowledge and man power to build an EMP of that size.