Algebra is the underpinning of symbolic logic. Without algebra one is left as a victim to the relationships and systems created by others.

It is only by taking the numbers out of math that math becomes a tool rather than a chore. The object of operating on math is to build proficiency with the tools. The object of operating with math is to illustrate what the tools are for.

Learning algebra is to logical thinking what learning penmanship is to writing. No matter how well you can type if you do not have the mechanical ability to write letters by hand you will always be a slave to someone else's system. Simply learning to type will teach you to communicate but it will not teach you how to communicate on your own terms.

The fact that so many people in the United States fail to learn algebra is not a failing of algebra - it is a failing of instruction. 2x=14 is not math, it is reasoning... and if we can't teach our children to reason, we might as well buy stock in Brawndo.

I learned algebra in fifth fucking grade (and negative numbers in 2nd). It had the effect of turning all math from that point forth into calesthenics. There were no daunting concepts, only daunting exercises... and every scientific discovery ever made became an eventuality in my head, rather than magic. Go ahead and decide the kidz don't need algebra. My kid is going to know it backwards and forwards and I can guarantee you your kids will work for her.