The influence of positivism on the teaching of mathematics in Brazil: 1870--1930 (Q1969912)

The authoress makes a notable contribution to the history of mathematics education and institutions by describing quite novel developments in Brazil. The unique feature there is the great extent to which influence was exerted by the positivist philosophy of Auguste Comte. It came to affect various aspects of Brazilian society including the construction of a `church of humanity' in Rio de Janeiro (shown on p. 332). This philosophy is evident in, for example, the prominence of geometry and algebra in the curriculum (not least Comte's own textbook of 1843, which received a new edition in 1894 with Brazilian help). The information on the end of the period covered is enhanced by recollections of a figure promiment then, made to the authoress in 1989.