Fasters's definitions

Pi Plus

When the number π is being blessed today as a symbol of global recognition that few remember that she was once addicted to geometry, particularly chained to the circle (until she gained her freedom thanks to her contributions to other branches of mathematics), and suffered centuries-long depression as mathematicians vied to assign her the best approximate value based on their methods of computation.

From her early humble days in Greece in the hands of Archimedes, when they’re trying to determine a good approximation for her, the number π has hitherto remained a constant of choice among the mathematical brethren, who hope that the discovery of pi plus secrets would help advance their career and achieve mathematical fame or immortality.

by Fasters May 27, 2022

ASAP

Short for “Always Stop And Pray”—when you need to be as smart or sharp as possible in tackling urgent and important matters, by relying on the Holy Spirit (the Third Person in the Trinity) for wisdom and direction for your solution.

The moment I realize that ASAP needn’t always stand for “As Soon As Possible,” I quickly submitted this long-overdue definition for publication.

by Fasters May 14, 2022

3 = 2 + 1

A numerical relationship or statement that most kindergarteners and elementary school students reject as being an equation, because in their minds the “answer” or the “sum” must always be on the right side of an equation.

When students don’t consider numerical liaisons like 3 = 2 + 1 and 1 = 3 – 2 as valid equations or mathematical sentences, their responses reveal a fair bit about their thinking processes.

by Fasters May 8, 2022

Mathematical Nihilism

The atheistic viewpoint that numbers and geometric shapes don’t exist but are man-made—they are mere human constructs or abstractions that are often used as imperfect tools to make sense of the physical universe, be it for modeling or predicting purposes.

No one has control over numbers outside of their minds; no one can draw a perfect circle or square; solving all those oft-impractical word problems at best shows a certain degree of algorithmic or algebraic proficiency. Are these limitations, imperfections, or formulations mere instances of mathematical nihilism?

by Fasters March 19, 2023

Pi Sutra

The mathematical equivalent of “Kama Sutra” that even those who are apathetic about or allergic to the number π want to order a copy or two, after it became the post-pandemic bestselling pop math title on Amazon.

Although “Pi Sutra” is filled with juicy pi factoids, reveals some creative ways of making the irrational number exciting even to math-anxious folks, and discuses some easy-to-understand cool theorems on mathematicians’ constant of choice, however, some ultra-MAGA parents have asked their governors to ban the recreational math book in school libraries, because it’s the potential to pervert the minds of teenagers.

by Fasters September 27, 2022

Jesus Christ

The most disruptive figure in all of humanity, and the universe’s most nonreligious figure, whose death on the cross now allows humankind to have a direct communication line with their Creator, without daily, weekly, monthly, or annual rituals, rites, and animal sacrifices, or obeying man-made religious laws.

In some parts of the world, the mere mention of Jesus Christ, or being caught reading the Good News about His love and power, could land truth seekers behind bars, because His name is above all other names—all (human, demonic, or spiritual) forces, governments, and principalities on earth are under His sovereign rule.

by Fasters September 3, 2023

Orgasmic Pi

The aha! feeling math geeks experience at the sight or sound of a little juicy or sexy theorem, or math factoid, on the number π—a minor form of mathematical bliss that could last for days in some instances.

Just as Roland Barthes, French writer and critic, associates a good or pleasurable read with a dizzying orgasm, pure mathematicians or number theorists secretly dream or long for an orgasmic pi chance encounter, especially when they’re at their most vulnerable state of mind.

by Fasters August 28, 2022