Mathematics not only is "number work‟ or "computation‟, but also is more about forming generalizations, seeing relationships and developing logical thinking and reasoning. Mathematics should be visualized as the vehicle to train a child to think, reason, analyze and to articulate logically. Mathematics should be shown as a way of thinking, an art forms a beauty and as human achievement. 

Note that:

• Locke stated, “Mathematics is a way to settle in the mind a habit of reasoning.” A more comprehensive definition of mathematics was given by Courant and Robin when they defined mathematics in the following way. “Mathematics is an expression of the human mind which reflects the active will, the contemplative reason and the desire for aesthetic perfection. Its basic elements are logic and intuition, analysis and construction, generality and individuality.”
• The special role of mathematics in education is a consequence of its universal applicability. The results of mathematics; theorems and theories; are both significant and useful; the best results are also elegant and deep. Through its theorems, mathematics offers science both a foundation of truth and a standard of certainty.

Hence, we conclude that the above statement is of Locke.