Coordinates Quote by Jean Dieudonne
“Analytical geometry has never existed. There are only people who do linear geometry badly, by taking coordinates, and they call this analytical geometry. Out with them!”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Geometry, Jean Dieudonne, 1970
The speaker rejects the term “analytical geometry,” claiming it misrepresents true geometry, which should not rely on coordinate systems.
In simple terms: Coordinates are misused; true geometry is coordinate‑free.
Key Takeaway
Rethink geometry without coordinates.
Themes
mathematics
philosophy
methodology
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- research
- curriculum design
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
geometry
coordinate systems
abstraction
Questions to Reflect On
- Is geometry without coordinates feasible for all problems?
- What benefits do coordinates provide?
A Different Perspective
Coordinates can simplify problems; abandoning them may hinder practical work.
![“Now ... the basic principle of modern mathematics is to achieve a complete fusion [of] 'geometric' and 'analytic' ideas.” quote by Jean Dieudonne](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a28/jean-dieudonne-54460_achieve_now-the-basic-principle-of-modern-mathem_895356.jpg)
![“[States and the Federal government are] coordinate departments of one simple and integral whole... The one is the domestic, the other the foreign branch of the same government.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/401/thomas-jefferson-43_branches_states-and-the-federal-government-are-co_2619.jpg)
