Mathematics Matters

摘要

Mathematics is often viewed as an abstract subject. It has the touch of the ethereal about it, a quaintness derived from its use of unfamiliar symbols. Many grapple with the subject at school, pleased to leave it behind and perhaps quipping that they'll never use maths in "real life" anyway. And yet, in today's modern, technological society, they're using it even if they don't realise it. Mathematics has never been more important or in such wide use. In short, it plays a fundamental role in underpinning UK PLC. A recent report by audit, tax, consultancy and corporate finance firm Deloitte found that 10 per cent of British jobs stem from research in the mathematical sciences. Thanks to mathematics, the country's coffers are boosted to the tune of ￡208 billion annually.