Pythagoras was wrong about music.

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  • Author(s): Stokel-Walker, Chris (AUTHOR)
  • Source:
    New Scientist. 3/9/2024, Vol. 261 Issue 3481, p15-15. 2/3p. 1 Color Photograph.
  • Additional Information
    • Subject Terms:
      PYTHAGORAS, ca. 570 B.C.-495 B.C.; ABSOLUTE pitch; MUSIC theory; ANCIENT philosophers; INTEGERS
    • Abstract:
      A recent study challenges the ancient Greek belief, often attributed to Pythagoras, that musical notes sound best in certain mathematical combinations. The study found that people around the world do not necessarily appreciate harmony in the same way as Pythagoras suggested. Western music theory has been heavily influenced by Pythagoras's belief, but this study suggests that the preference for perfect mathematical ratios may not be universal. The findings highlight the complexity and diversity of music perception and suggest that Western views should not be assumed to be held worldwide. [Extracted from the article]
    • Abstract:
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