Morris Kline

Date of Birth: May 1, 1908

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: June 10, 1992

Biography

Morris Kline was an influential American mathematician and writer, best known for his critical works on the philosophy and teaching of mathematics. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Kline displayed an early aptitude for mathematics, which led him to pursue higher education in the field. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from New York University, followed by a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the same institution. Kline’s career was marked by his tenure as a professor at New York University, where he was known for his passionate teaching and extensive writing. Kline authored numerous books that explored the role and development of mathematics in society, such as “Mathematics: The Loss of Certainty” and “Mathematics in Western Culture.” His works often critiqued modern mathematical education and advocated for a more integrated and humanistic approach to teaching the subject. Kline’s contributions to the field of mathematics extended beyond his books; he was also a dedicated educator who inspired countless students through his innovative teaching methods.

5 Interesting Facts about Morris Kline

1. Morris Kline served as a professor at New York University for over 30 years.

2. He was a vocal critic of the “New Math” movement in the 1960s and 1970s.

3. Kline was awarded the Lester R. Ford Award in 1965 for his expository writing.

4. He wrote a total of 15 books during his lifetime, many of which remain influential in the field of mathematics education.

5. Kline’s book “Mathematics: The Loss of Certainty” is considered a seminal work in the philosophy of mathematics.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Morris Kline

1. “Mathematics is the only subject where, if you know the answer in advance, it is possible to find a straightforward path to it.”

2. “The most fertile source of insight is hindsight.”

3. “To be a good mathematician, one must also be a good human being.”

4. “Mathematics is not a careful march down a well-cleared highway, but a journey into a strange wilderness, where the explorers often get lost.”

5. “The power of mathematics is often to change one thing into another, to change geometry into language.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While exact figures are not available, Morris Kline’s highest net worth was modest, given his career as an academic and writer rather than a commercial entrepreneur.