Disclaimer: This question is definitely not problem solving but is for rectifying a doubt in history.
Recently I was researching on the historical significance of mathematical operators and their symbol origination.I started off reading about $+$ and $-$ symbols on Wikipedia, which sufficiently satisfied me with an explanation that $+$ in a simplification of Latin "et" (Comparable to &). The Egyptians' symbolism was unique too, with characteristics sign reversal to signify $+$ and $-$ sign. (Although I believe Europe was smart enough not to adapt to that so as to make way for our $\sigma$)
Same was for our renowned minus sign $-$, the wikipedia provided convinceable information.
BUT. As I reached the division sign $\div$ (The $Obelus$) the reasoning went to trash. The Obelus actually signifies "The deceased". Even though there is a statement saying:
$> Division may also be indicated by a horizontal line (fraction bar) or a slash. In ISO 80000-2-9.6 (about division) it says,
"The symbol ÷ should not be used." In editing texts an obelus takes
the form of a dagger mark (†) and is used as a reference mark, or to
indicate that a person is deceased, and often used to indicate a
footnote."
Then my question is, since this $Obelus$ is also used as a symbol to represent subtraction (In Northern Europe), why are many schools in Asia still using this symbol as the one for fraction at the grass root level of education? I do agree that we get accustomed to "/" as we grow up , even then why promote usage of a symbol which itself acts as a significance of multiple other things at the schooling standards of second and third grade ?
I'm open to any convincing opinion upon this question.
Cheers!
Best Answer
Maybe because the ÷ symbol gives children in the second and third grade a better conceptual understanding of division before the standalone "/" symbol is introduced. As a kid I saw the dots in the obelus as kind of like place holders for the dividend and the divisor, then you learn that all you need is the "/" symbol and you're good to go.