Do I Have to Take Mathematics?

Abstract

This too frequently repeated question puts mathematics in the same category as spinach. Why spinach? Because of the young American who used to wail (before the days of Pop-Eye), “Do I have to eat spinach?” I wonder if the answer for both questions is, “Yes, it is good for you.” Judging by the number of high school graduates who are making application to enter college and who have had a minimum of mathematics in secondary school, many principals and guidance directors do not think mathematics at all necessary for the intellectual life of their students.