66 years old, Master Plumber for 45 years and can honestly say I have never used Algabra for anything! To me its like learning French, whats the point!!
I would be willing to bet you use it a lot and do not even realize it.
You spent your life figuring out how to fit things into spaces. You were using algebra without realizing it.
You probably do use it as all of it is taught as foundation in traditional math from early grades. We just don’t realize it.
I believe separating sections of mathematics with individual terms is the by product of “standards” for specific ages of introduction into those sections of math.
The problem is that human beings develop areas of their brains at different ages and what one eleven year old may have begun to develop the logic/analyzing side of their brain, another child of thirteen may not have.
I f mathematics were taught practically and with relative examples instead of abstract representations, children would develop a much better foundation early on and actually enjoy the process.
1) This article is about people in college, a category which does not include you. With all due respect, your experience is not relevant.
2) Algebra requires (and teaches) abstract, logical thinking. People who cannot think logically and in the abstract are really unfit for self-governance.
3) I have found knowledge of languages other than English useful for two reasons. Such knowledge provides insight into the origins and correct meaning of English words. Such knowledge has also given some insight into cultures other than my own, and an understanding of why some people do the things they do. If this is of no value to you, personally, that's fine. But again, College (and even High School) isn't for everybody.
Yes, you have, or you'd have never been able to plan a job or bill for materials.
You never needed to apply a ratio?