M.A Thesis Subject: 

My research primarily concerns Mesopotamian mathematical knowledge from cuneiform texts spanning from the Archaic to Old Babylonian periods. Constituting a significant but often overlooked body of cultural and scientific knowledge compared to later Babylonian texts, these periods are marked by the emergence and evolution of cuneiform writing, signifying a transition from indigenous oral traditions to a written scribal tradition and showcasing major shifts in knowledge systems.

Through understanding the development of numerical and metrological systems, we can better trace the transfer of scientific knowledge across the Ancient Near East, incorporating even inter-disciplinary cross-cultural perspectives into our studies. We can further investigate how mathematics came to be the primary language in societal management, economics, and astronomy, as well as why particular mathematical systems triumphed in use over others. Further fascinating enquiries can be made including the history of arithmetical operations, use of algorithms, abstract knowledge and mathematical organisation, forms of algebraic knowledge and practice, proofs and theories, etc.

This study aims to illustrate and answer key questions about the early development of mathematical reasoning in Mesopotamia, incorporate a range of contemporary perspectives, and open the field to fresh views for further research. 

Supervisor: Prof. Wayne Horowitz

• Sidney M. Edelstein Centre for History & Philosophy of Science, Technology & Medicine Cuneiform in Australia and New Zealand (CANZ)