Abstract
In this paper we introduce an ethical framework for teaching elementary mathematics, “Mathematics for Multispecies’ Flourishing” (M4MSF). We have used the framework as a thematic and organizing principle for a 400 level optional course, Issues in Elementary Mathematics Education, that we designed and facilitated in Winter 2020 for pre-service teachers. We draw upon Mathematician Francis Su (2020) who has promoted the idea of doing mathematics as a route to human flourishing and Psychologist Martin Seligman’s (2011) PERMA theory of well-being. We also draw upon Donna Haraway’s (2016) notions of making kin once again with our multispecies relatives in order to extend a right to flourish from humans as an exception to all species as a norm.
In our context,
