Over the course of J-term 2023, nine senior Mathematics majors took part in Math Senior Capstone. The course focuses on complex analysis, the philosophy of mathematics, and the intersection of faith and mathematics. The nine students were instructed by Dr. Case in complex analysis and a review of their undergraduate mathematics curriculum in the morning sessions of the class, while the afternoon sessions were more discussion-based. Students read multiple books over the course of the month, including Mathematics in a Postmodern Age, Weapons of Math Destruction, and Open to Reason (written by former Taylor professor Dr. David Neuhouser). Students wrote papers on the nature of mathematics and the integration of faith and mathematics, while also giving speeches related to a philosophy of mathematics topic and their faith in consideration of the axiomatic method.
Per Math Department tradition, the course culminated in a retreat at Amigo Centre in Sturgis, Michigan. The nine students and Dr. Case piled into a van for the 2.5 hour drive north. Whether it was enjoying meals at the camp cafeteria, having thoughtful discussion about life after Taylor, or performing a funeral for a dead mouse, the class had a tremendous time. While the trip was supposed to last from Monday, January 23 through Wednesday, January 25, the retreat was cut short by a major snowstorm that came through Wednesday morning. Still, it was the perfect conclusion to a great month of learning and growing closer together as a senior class!
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