Incan mathematics and numbers of conquestResearch by:Molly LeonardIn collaboration with:Dr. Cheri ShakibanDr. Raul Marrero-Fente

Incan Math Basics

• Numbers are conceptualized in terms of social- especially family and kinship- roles and relations

• Desired state is that all resources, labor, behavior, relations, and attitudes are in a state of balance, equilibrium, and harmony. Mathematical calculations are only performed in order to “rectify” the imbalance.

Spanish Math

Basics

• Al Yabr (Algebra), was introduced with the tendency to only work with positive numbers

» 6x2 – 36x + 60 = 2x2 – 12» 6x2 + 60 + 12 = 2x2 + 36x

• The use of irrational numbers and infinity provided the basis for maximization

• Numbers were directly connected with the notion of domination