[math-fun] Re: Why learn algebra?

My theory is that the reason to teach algebra is (and always was) to teach analytical thinking. In modern society, analytical thinking is very much on the wane as a valued skill. There are no short term consequences for lack of analytical thinking, so no motivation to learn it, so all the easier to dismiss algebra as irrelevant. Which it is and always was. Example: in the old days when we used cash, if your average stiff didn't plan his expenditures for the week carefully, he'd have no lunch money on Friday.