Mathematical Inqueery: Queering the Theory, Praxis, and Politics of Mathematics Pedagogy

Abstract

While mathematics education has experienced a “social turn” among critical mathematics educators who have developed social justice perspectives, queer perspectives have only recently emerged in this discussion. This chapter elaborates on “mathematical inqueery” as a perspective on mathematics and mathematics education informed by queer theory. The chapter makes several contributions in terms of theory. The argument is put forth that mathematics is a “pretty queer thing.” Parallels are drawn between the ways in which queer theory challenges common sense assumptions and the ways in which the modern process of proof does so. Two tensions inhering in queer theory and queer pedagogy are examined. The first is a tension between a critique of heteronormativity and a critique of normativity more broadly. Second is a tension between identitarian subjectivity and a critique of such a view. These two tensions shape the way in which mathematics pedagogy and queer theory interact in mathematical inqueery. In addition to addressing theory, the chapter delves into the praxis and politics in relation to queering family, citizenship, and financial literacy. A typical financial literacy story is read and critiqued through a queer economics lens and an alternative is explored. Finally, the argument that context and math are inseparable is put forward using the example of exponential financial formulas for interest.