Sample outline for papers and presentations 

Topic: Quipu

  • General Introduction 
    • Peruvian Civilization and the Inca Empire. Quick discussion on the Geo-Historical need for a record system. 
    • Introduction of the chasquis and the Quipukeeper as examples of historical adaptation to the orographic conditions. 
    • Quipu as written records? Brief analysis of Quipu as possible writing system as suggested by Professor Gary Urton in his analysis of the Historia Piruanorum. 
  •  Structure of Quipu 
    • General Characteristics and string hierarchy: S and Z Strings. Introductory vs coding segments.  
    • Types of Knots: Single, Long and E-Knots 
    • Coding elements: Color of the strings and spacing on the strings. 
  •  Arithmetical Ideas 
    • Positional base 10 numeral System. Supporting evidences for a possible base 5 system  
    • Addition with Quipu. Puruchuco quipu are an example of a progressive addition of hierarchical values These Quipu were likely used for bookkeeping and they are an example of summation of values -
    • Ratios and Fractions  Quipu used in population grouping and tax regulations show a fundamental grasp of set theory and elemental partitions. 
    • Multiplication with Quipu Quick explanation of possible uses of quipu as calculators in complex multiplications. I will introduce the example of quipu 719 which is one of the few surviving Inca multiplication “tables” .