The role of applied mathematics in the electrical engineering art

THE EXTENT to which mathematics plays a significant role in engineering is synonymous with the extent to which engineering is identifiable with applied science. Engineering is a combination of the scientific and the practical. The extent to which either of these aspects predominates over the other cannot be defined, but depends entirely upon the nature of the problem dealt with and the ever-changing pattern of prevailing circumstances. Therefore, it is quite clear that the degree to which purely mathematical disciplines are coupled with or are essential to the activities of the engineer must be recognized as markedly varying with both time and geographical location. For example, 50 years ago in this country, the practical definitely out weighted the purely scientific aspects in engineering activity; 25 years ago, we might say that the two were reaching a competitive stage; today, it is fair to say that the emphasis upon science in engin eering predominates so strikingly that a member of our profession whose background is not primarily scientific to a degree of substantial depth cannot identify himself with that segment of professional activity that dominates and, hence, characterizes its essential meaning or definition.