In today's complex world, numbers often seem daunting, yet a new documentary titled "Counted Out" argues that understanding mathematics is crucial for civil rights and democracy. Directed by former Wall Street lawyer Vicki Abeles, the film asserts that "Math is power," revealing how a lack of numerical literacy can create barriers to tackling society's pressing issues such as healthcare, climate change, and electoral integrity.
Abeles has been motivated to create the film partly by observing widespread math anxiety, particularly in school-aged children, including her own daughter. The film reflects her desire to investigate the root of this fear: why many people shy away from mathematics and the broader ramifications of this aversion.
Among those featured in the documentary is Ismar Volic, a Wellesley College professor and one of the founders of the Institute for Mathematics and Democracy. Having witnessed the dissolution of democracy during the war in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Volic draws parallels between that experience and contemporary challenges in the United States and globally. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding the mathematical infrastructure that underpins democratic processes like voting and representation.
Through interviews and critical discussions, "Counted Out" challenges viewers to reconceptualize their relationship with mathematics and recognize the essential role it plays in fostering a stronger, more equitable society. As the film prepares for its limited theatrical release next year, it seeks to inspire a new appreciation for numbers and their impact on our lives.
