[Aztlan] zero does not mean "shell"

[David Hixson]

Just to inject a little levity to this discussion -- and to illustrate for fellow list members that these discussions do in fact have larger ramifications for both ancient and modern history, I invite you all to read this editorial on the concept of zero (written before the turn of the millenium in "The Atlantic" magazine).  Most of it is the standard history of the concept of zero (including the Maya), but the modern replies from notable scholars to the journalist's questions are enlightening and entertaining...

http://www.theatlantic.com/issues/97jul/zero.htm

[Note: When the author mentions that the Maya glyph for zero is a flower, he is referring to the Early Classic equivalent to the Postclassic shell glyph that has been under discussion].

Enjoy.

-Dave
_________________________________
David R. Hixson
PhD Candidate
Tulane University
chunchucmil at yahoo.com