The only connection between rice and math listed in that article is that cultivating rice encouraged a stronger work ethic because it is a year-round task. I'm

The only connection between rice and math listed in that article is that cultivating rice encouraged a stronger work ethic because it is a year-round task. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that education has long been a cornerstone of Chinese society, going as far back as standardized tests during the Han dynasty.