Posted by rpcman on August 24, 1998 at 15:11:25:
In Reply to: I would say no--too simplistic, but... posted by Chris on August 24, 1998 at 14:46:59:
I guess my main question/opinion is whether or not math "challenges" any pre-conceived notions. I don't know of anything in the field that would do this. Paleobiology, for instance, certainly does challenge the popular traditions of culture.
Your points about doubt may also play a key role.
Also to consider is whether or not people choose their profession based, in part at least, on their religious beliefs. A theist who believes in a personal god (and who doesn't want to find anything to cause doubts) may steer clear of something like anthropology--while at the same time not finding anything "wrong" with choosing a career in math since nothing in the field is going to shake cherished beliefs.