Algebra Quote by Irving Kaplansky
![“We [he and Halmos] share a philosophy about linear algebra: we think basis-free, we write basis-free , but when the chips are down we close the office door and compute with matrices like fury.” quote by Irving Kaplansky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/412/irving-kaplansky-103422_algebra_we-he-and-halmos-share-a-philosophy-abou_1805230.jpg)
“We [he and Halmos] share a philosophy about linear algebra: we think basis-free, we write basis-free , but when the chips are down we close the office door and compute with matrices like fury.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Mathematical Association of America, 1979
Abstract thinking guides theory, but concrete computation resolves problems.
In simple terms: Theory guides, computation solves.
Key Takeaway
Blend abstract insight with practical calculation.
Themes
mathematics
problem solving
theory vs practice
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
educational
technical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- research
- software development
- data analysis
Key Concepts
linear algebra
basis‑free thinking
computational methods
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you switch from theory to calculation?
- How do you keep intuition alive?
A Different Perspective
Pure abstraction can become disconnected from real‑world needs.
![“I said, "Well, why do you believe in the Klein Bottle?" He said, "Because I can imagine it." I said, "You don't have to imagine a Mobius strip. It's right there in front of you!" But [Buckminster Fuller] couldn't see how that could involve a cross cap, meaning something that couldn't be reduced to…” quote by Paul Laffoley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/439/paul-laffoley-7077_because-i-can_i-said-well-why-do-you-believe-in-the-kl_2094570.jpg)
![“[On refusing to do nude movie scenes:] There are certain people who should know what you look like naked. I just don't think your high-school algebra teacher should be one of them.” quote by Julia Roberts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5cc/julia-roberts-2214_algebra_on-refusing-to-do-nude-movie-scenes-ther_58800.jpg)
