[pflats]

Oh, I agree, that's the best part. Pick your rules: oh, you picked those seven? You've got a ring; here are your math rules!

In that specific case, though, I figured I'd point out that the basic rules of math aren't usually things people squabble over. (Although I do enjoy a little mathematical philosophy from time to time.)

[pseut]

Even better is when, to everyone's surprise, those seven turn out to be relevant for describing real world phenomena.