In non-math saturated lives, the word argument is usually seen to have negative connotations. If you tell someone you had an argument with someone else, the response will be something like, “Oh, that’s a shame. Are you all right?” or “Who won?”

In the world of mathematics, arguments have a necessary presence in just about every function (equation, problem, challenge) because they are the very definition of the value of the function (equation, problem, challenge) at-hand in order for everyone to be able to move towards a successful joint outcome.

If each mathematician assigned their own personal value definition to an argument, it’s kinda obvious that – when working with others on that function (equation, problem, challenge) – the likelihood that the solution would be a success is somewhere around nil (aka zero).

So, why do we think we’ll find true success on a team if there’s a couple folks doing that whole let’s agree to disagree (so we can all just move on) passive-aggressive dance?

Additionally, if you read last week’s essay about variables, then you’ll understand that since an argument is also a variable, that means there’s an acknowledgement & awareness that’s required to be considered about those conditions where that argument is existing within, in order to accurately determine its value.

Here’s what we can learn from the mathematical definition of an argument:

• Two or more people are willingly participating in this exchange of information. Less than that and you’re witnessing a rant, not an argument.

• The topic of the argument remains focused on and applicable to the conditions of the function (equation, problem, challenge).

• The argument is complete when all participants actively agree on the value that’s been defined for the function (equation, problem, challenge). Ergo, agree to disagree does not qualify in this context.

• Respectful communication abound. Duh.

I think arguments have always been meant to be a positive way to move through a disagreement. Because when everyone gets to the other side of that argument, don’t you physically feel lighter?