You know, it's funny. I got a degree in math with a minor in CS. While I directly use the CS much more today than the math, I firmly believe my analysis courses -- delta-epsilon proofs included -- set me on the right course in properly examining matters and not settling for handwaved explanations.
I suppose it's a matter of perspective, but then again the "math" that junior high and high schools usually teach isn't really math. Rather, it is a brief explanation of boring topics, taught in a boring way to emphasize rote memorization. I'd prefer to see teachers focus on the joy of exploring a concept so that you understand it actively versus passively, and (yes) rigorous logic as well.
We'd have a better citizenry overall if people thought like mathematicians, whether or not they "use" the material.
I suppose it's a matter of perspective, but then again the "math" that junior high and high schools usually teach isn't really math. Rather, it is a brief explanation of boring topics, taught in a boring way to emphasize rote memorization. I'd prefer to see teachers focus on the joy of exploring a concept so that you understand it actively versus passively, and (yes) rigorous logic as well.
We'd have a better citizenry overall if people thought like mathematicians, whether or not they "use" the material.