Coded conduct: making MACSYMA users and the automation of mathematics. (2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dick, Stephanie A.
• Editors: Leong, Elaine; Creager, Angela; Grote, Mathias
• Is Part Of: BJHS Themes. Volume 5(2020)
• Page Start: 205
• Page End: 224
• Publication Date: 2020
• Subjects: Science -- Historiography -- Periodicals; Science -- History -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 507.22
• DOI: 10.1017/bjt.2020.10
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2058-850X

Abstract

Abstract: This article explores an early computer algebra system called MACSYMA – a repository of automated non-numeric mathematical operations developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from the 1960s to the 1980s, to help mathematicians, physicists, engineers and other mathematical scientists solve problems and prove theorems. I examine the extensive paper-based training materials that were produced alongside the system to create its users. Would-be users were told that the system would free them from the drudgery of much mathematical labour. However, this 'freedom' could only be won by adapting to a highly disciplined mode of problem solving with a relatively inflexible automated assistant. In creating an automated repository of mathematical knowledge, MACSYMA developers sought to erase its social context. However, looking at the training literature, we see that the social operates everywhere, only recoded. This article uses the paper-based training materials to uncover the codes of conduct – both social and technical – that coordinated between the users, developers and machines that constituted the system.