Which description best matches the Rigor associated with the Greeks in mathematics?

• A. Firm axiomatic basis
• B. Self-evident truths
• C. Expected detailed arguments with theorems
• D. Methods employed for theorems were less rigorous

Answer: (C)

Rigor in Greek mathematics means proving statements with clear, logical justification rather than just appealing to intuition. The Greeks insisted that every result be supported by a detailed argument that derives it from axioms and previously proven theorems. This is exactly what Euclid’s Elements exemplifies: a concise set of definitions, axioms, and postulates followed by step-by-step proofs for each theorem. Self-evident truths aren’t enough, and describing their methods as less rigorous doesn’t fit their careful, deductive approach. So the best description is that the rigor involves detailed arguments with theorems.