Introduction to the virtual special issue: Mathematics that underpins social issues

This Virtual Special Issue on Mathematics in Society: Exploring the Mathematics that Underpins Social Issues features 13 articles which expand our understanding of how people build, retain, communicate, apply, and comprehend mathematical ideas as they relate to social and societal issues. The focus is on education research that explores the ways in which mathematics and a mathematical worldview can influence choices, on educational, personal and societal levels. We take a broad view and raise questions about what it means to be mathematical in society, and we consider the multifaceted ways in which abilities to derive and interpret information presented mathematically are also necessary in and for society. •Multifaceted role of mathematics•Math literacy includes capacity to formulate situations mathematically.•Math includes critical sense making of the world and identity.•Math to prepare students to be active, informed, and socially responsible