Faculty Notes on Isomorphisms
Recognizing when and how things are the same is so central to mathematics that is seems a crime to let students
finish their education in mathematics without being introduced at least to the concept of an isomorphism. The logic puzzles
included here can be used as an exercise with students at any level to indicate the idea of an isomophism. You can also share
with students ways that mathematicians might use the word isomophism or more likely isomorphic
humourously in conversation. For example, imagine two mathematicians discussing a university administration where there have been
a number of academic vice presidents and one saying to the other: "Sure, we've had four academic V.P.'s in the last five years but they are
all isomorphic. The place still goes on, business as usual."
