________________
use, From this point of view, mathematics can be considered as philosophy.
4.1 The Decimal System -
The first of the main aspects of mathematics has its origin in the counting, weighing and measuring needed in primitive trade. This seems to have included the invention of the numerals that developed in the Hindu - Arabic system, and the zero, which made the place value idea possible. At the time of introduction the numerals and the zero were not rated as being of particular importance. Other systems of numerals were in vogue, and these were apparently quite as valuable as the ones from which our familiar symbols were derived.
The most important fundamental contribution of ancient India to the progress of civilization is the invention of what is called the decimal system of numeration, including he invention of the number zero. The characteristic feature of the system is the usage of nine digits and a symbol for zero to denote all integral numbers, by assigning place value to the digit. This was known as the Decimal System.
A well-known archeologist, Dr. S.R. Rao, has professed a new theory, that it was the Harappans who gave to the world the decimal system of measurement and the use of gold as a medium of exchange. Dr. Rao is of the view that harappans produced gold discs which were made in a particular ratio of weight. The unit was known as gunjā, conforming to the Suvarņa masaka referred to in the Arthaşāstra. The gold discs of various sizes found at Lathal and hitherto mistaken for pendants, weighed exactly 50, 100, 2500, 2750, 2800, 2900, 3000, 3250 milligrams, thus indicating a decimal system.
Dr. Rao claimed that it was the Harappans who introduced the decimal system for linear measurement and for weighing delicate objects like gold and precious stones. The divisions marked on the Lothal Ivory scale in decimal sustem the smallest known in the ancient world, each division measured 1.7 mm. However, the scales found at Harappa, Mohan-jo-dāro and Lothal were all differently marked, but were interrelated, Dr. Rao Said, "The vast structures, such as the dockyard at Lathal, were well proportioned in terms of the Lothal Linear scale, the Harappā pan measurement system was continued in later days. The ten division of the Lothal scale were equal to one angula mentioned in the arthaśästra." According to his view, Harappans achieved "Great accuracy" in the measurement of fundamental units of length as well as time. The smallest unit of length was 1.7 mm and that a mass was 50 mg.
There is also a school of thought, which believes that, in spite of lack of direct evidence of a great deal of mathematics, the high level of Mohanjodāro and Harappa civilizations with well-planned cities, puccā houses with ventilation 376 04, 23 (3), 2011
75
