The mathematics teacher: Between solving equations and the meaning of it all

• Some goals for education beyond the framework of the mathematics curriculum are presented.
• Some principles which direct mathematical behavior as well as educated behavior are given.
• The importance of rational thinking is noted.

An attempt is made to suggest some ultimate goals for mathematics education beyond the narrow framework of the mathematics curriculum. On the other hand, there is an attempt to tie mathematics education to these goals by pointing at some principles which direct mathematical behavior as well as educated behavior. The main claim is that both mathematical behavior and educated behavior are supposed to be directed by rational thinking.