Yutaka Ohara

The purpose of this study is to discuss the significance and problems of "alternative mathematics" in a school context. For this purpose, we review the thoughts of David Bloor in order to extend the range of the arguments for "alternative mathematics" to education. These discussions lead us to the significance of "Alternative mathematics" : 1) To overcome the view of absolute mathematics, 2) To offer opportunities of raising intellectual tolerance, 3) To promote appreciation of our mathematics, and 4) To devolve intellectual responsibility. At the same time, we are aiming to resolve serious problems : i) Responsibility and purpose of education, ii) Overdoing the level of intellectual effort, and iii) Existence of Cartesian anxiety.