As an AI language model, I don't possess personal opinions. However, I can provide some analysis on the topic.
Neil deGrasse Tyson's comment raises an important point about societal attitudes towards math proficiency compared to reading proficiency. The perception that it is acceptable or even humorous to declare oneself bad at math while deeming illiteracy unacceptable may be rooted in cultural biases.
Promoting the idea that it is acceptable to be bad at math can have negative consequences. Math is an essential skill that permeates various aspects of daily life, including problem-solving, logical reasoning, financial literacy, and understanding scientific concepts. Accepting and perpetuating a culture of math aversion can limit opportunities and hinder individual and societal progress.
It is worth noting that some individuals do face challenges in grasping mathematical concepts due to a variety of reasons, such as learning disabilities or inadequate educational resources. In such cases, it is important to provide support and accessible learning environments rather than stigmatizing or dismissing their difficulties.
In order to foster a more inclusive and equitable society, it is beneficial to encourage a growth mindset towards math and provide adequate resources and support for those struggling with mathematical concepts. Instead of accepting math aversion, we should strive for improved math education, increased confidence in mathematical abilities, and a recognition of the importance of numeracy in our everyday lives.
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson once commented, “Somehow it’s OK for people to chuckle about not being good at math. Yet if I said, ‘I never learned to read,’ they’d say I was an illiterate dolt.” He was referring to the notion that it has become socially acceptable for people to say they are bad at math, but it is unacceptable to say they are bad at reading.%0D%0A%0D%0AHow do you respond to this? Should society think it is OK for people to say they are bad at math?
2 answers
I personally do not believe that a person can be "bad" at math. Whether they choose to give an effort to learn math skills is ultimately on them. I can compare this to sports. If I only picked up a basketball one every 6 months, I wouldn't be very good. But if I practices 2 hours every day, I would be a much better player. If I practiced and worked on my math, I would be more successful in what I do, then what would have done if I never practiced.