Geert Vanpaemel

Dirk De Bock

For anyone interested in the history and effects of the introduction of so-called “Modern Mathematics” (or “Mathématique Moderne,” or “New Mathematics,” etc.) this book, by Dirk De Bock and Geert Vanpaemel, is essential reading. The two authors are experienced and highly qualified Belgian scholars and the book looks carefully at events relating to school mathematics for the period from the end of World War II to 2010. Initially the book focuses on events which helped to define the modern mathematics revolution in Belgium before and during the 1960s. The book does much more than that, however, for it traces the influence of these events on national and international debates during the early phases of the reform. By providing readers with translations into English of relevant sections of key Continental documents outlining the major ideas of leading Continental scholars who contributed to the “Mathématique Moderne” movement, this book makes available to a wide readership, the theoretical, social, and political backdrops of Continental new mathematics reforms. In particular, the book focuses on the contributions made by Belgians such as Paul Libois, Willy Servais, Frédérique Lenger, and Georges Papy. The influence of modern mathematics fell away rapidly in the 1970s, however, and the authors trace the rise and fall, from that time into the 21st century, of a number of other approaches to school mathematics—in Belgium, in other Western European nations, and in North America. In summary, this is an outstanding, landmark publication displaying the fruits of deep scholarship and careful research based on extensive analyses of primary sources.

The Rise and Fall of Modern Mathematics in Belgium

Rods, Sets and Arrows

Ive always thought that Hold On would be my last book. Certainly after a vicious attack in 2008 that destroyed my life for many years. The writing was difficult, I couldnt concentrate, didnt do much writing for several years, due to these injuries and the struggle with my health. So I started to publish my writings in small and cheap little poetry books and that was the positive side of it. After more than 7 years the doctor finally found a good medicine and it felt like coming alive again. So much energy and inspiration that came back to me, I could focus again without having pain or headaches all the time, I didnt feel tired anymore, my life had started again. Again another proof that God is still on my side and I call this medicine the miracle of God, thats also what I told to my doctor. So here it is already, my number 5 Never Give Up and I would like to say thanks again to Xlibris, for hanging on and also believing in me when times were rough.

Dirk De Bock

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