And
the like remarks would apply to the physical problems which depend on
Partial Differential Equations.
I think that the course of mathematical study at the University is
likely to be a better one if regulated with a view to the cultivation
of Science, as if for its own sake, rather than directly upon
considerations of what is educationally best (I mean that the best
educational course will be so obtained), and that we have thus a
justification for a thorough study of Pure Mathematics. In my own
limited experience of examinations, the fault which I find with the
men is a want of analytical power, and that whatever else may have
been in defect Pure Mathematics has certainly not been in excess.
I remain, dear Sir,
Yours sincerely,
A. CAYLEY.
CAMBRIDGE,
_10th Dec., 1867_.
* * * * *
_1867, December 17_.
MY DEAR SIR,
Since receiving your letter of 9th I positively have not had time to
express the single remark which I proposed to make on it.
You state your idea that the educational element ought not to be the
predominating element in the University. "I do not think that every
thing should be subordinated to the educational element.
Pages:
429
430
431
432
433
434
435
436
437
438
439
440
441
442
443
444
445
446
447
448
449
450
451
452
453