'Taking a refreshing noneurocentric position which refutes any suggestion that 'West is best' as regards the development of mathematical thinking, Bishop sees mathematical development as being a function of the needs of whatever society in which it arises.' Tony Brown (Manchester Polytechnic), in Mathematics Teaching 'This book is an informed, extremely rational and objective account of some aspects of enculturation and educational activity in the field of mathematics. I would recommend the book to all interested in mathematics education and curriculum design.' Kathryn Crawford (The University of Sydney), in Educational Studies in Mathematics 'What is unique about Bishop's account is his attempt to specify and describe a universal set of activities that have supported and shaped the development of mathematics throughout the world.' J. Stigler, in Journal for Research in Mathematics Education