Beyond Numbers: Why Math Matters for the Human Soul with Torgun Lovely | Ep 4

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of mathematics as more than just numbers and equations. Our guest, a passionate math instructor, shares his journey of discovering Plato’s Republic and explores how ancient philosophy can transform our understanding of math today. Through rich discussions, he explains why math is essential to human flourishing, offering insights into its power to shape minds and nourish the soul. From the concept of zero and its unique historical roots to the role of calculus in the church and beyond, he reveals how math has always intertwined with humanity’s deepest questions. Join us as we explore why studying math can be a path to personal growth and fulfillment, and why, as Plato believed, mathematics is truly a pursuit for the human spirit.

About Torgun Lovely Torgun Lovely has been with Liberty Common School for 16 years, working in various teaching and leadership capacities. He started as the school’s mathematics specialist, teaching classes while overseeing the school’s k-9 mathematics program. In 2010, as the school was expanding to offer grades 10-12, he helped orchestrate what was to become the State of Colorado’s top-performing high-school mathematics program. In 2013 he was promoted to serve as the school’s first assistant principal, and then was promoted into the high-school principal position in January of 2018. More recently he has resumed his role as a mathematics instructor and as the chair of the mathematics department. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics as well as a master's degree in business administration, both from Colorado State University. He and his lovely wife of 23 years, Kathy, have raised two lovely children, Hannah (21), and Mathias (19) – both of whom are proud graduates of LCHS. Additional Resources

Math for English Majors by Ben Orlin

Math with Bad Drawings by Ben Orlin

Here's Looking at Euclid by Alex Bellos

Mathematical Mysteries by Calvin C Clawson

The Number Devil by Hans Magnus Enzensberger

Mathematics for Human Flourishing by Francis Su

A Most Elegant Equation by Stipp

Euclid in the Rainforest by Joseph Mazur

Zero by Charles Seife

The Republic by Plato

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