From solving equations to the meaning of life: Mathematics, rationality and values: An essay in memoriam of Hans Georg Steiner

An attempt is made to suggest some ultimate goals for education beyond the narrow framework of the mathematics curriculum. In addition, there is an attempt to link 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. I do not remember when I first met Hans Georg Steiner. For sure, it was at one of the mathematics education conferences in the 1970s. However, in my memory he lives as somebody I always knew: Outstanding personality, friendly, generous with huge intellectual and cultural horizons. A precious source of inspiration for so many.