In brief
A documentary sheds light on math anxiety and its societal impacts.
Math has a profound connection to democracy, as highlighted in the new documentary "Counted Out," directed by Vicki Abeles. With a tagline declaring “Math is power,” this film emphasizes that a robust understanding of mathematics is crucial for navigating societal challenges like healthcare and elections. Abeles, prompting the film’s creation, noticed widespread math anxiety among students, including her own daughter, and adults around her—fueling her curiosity about the consequences of this fear. Featuring insights from mathematicians like Ismar Volic, a professor and founder of the Institute for Mathematics and Democracy, the film links historical parallels between societal breakdowns in regions like Bosnia and current threats to democracy in the U.S. Volic’s work highlights how mathematics is essential for ensuring fair representation and effective voting systems. “Counted Out” aims to demystify math and make it accessible, stressing that when we restrict mathematical knowledge, we hinder progress and democracy itself. As Abeles notes, knowledge in math can empower individuals and communities, underscoring the urgency of transforming society’s relationship with numbers. The film is screening at various festivals and will see a limited theatrical release next year, aiming to spark discussions on this critical intersection of math and democratic life.
