Mathematics is hard for mathematicians to understand too | Science
At a recent conference dedicated to the evolving role of mathematics in the era of artificial intelligence, renowned mathematician and Fields Medalist Akshay Venkatesh delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “How do we talk to our students about AI?” His discussion was sparked by an email from a young student who expressed concerns about the relevance of studying mathematics in a world increasingly dominated by machines capable of solving complex problems. The student’s inquiry highlighted a critical question: What role will mathematicians play in an age where AI can seemingly answer any mathematical question? Venkatesh used this moment to explore the deeper implications of AI on the field of mathematics, suggesting that it presents a unique opportunity to bridge the widening gap between mathematical practice and the core values that underpin the discipline.
Venkatesh emphasized that the essence of mathematics transcends mere calculations and algorithms; it is fundamentally about understanding the world around us. This perspective aligns with the views of mathematician William Thurston, who famously stated that mathematics is not solely about numbers but about the pursuit of comprehension. However, Venkatesh lamented the current state of mathematical research, pointing out that many scholarly papers and presentations often fail to convey genuine understanding to their audiences. He argued that this disconnect is problematic, particularly in an age where AI can perform calculations and solve equations with remarkable efficiency. The challenge for educators and mathematicians, according to Venkatesh, is to reframe the narrative around mathematics, focusing on fostering a deeper understanding rather than merely producing answers.
As the conversation around AI and mathematics continues to evolve, Venkatesh’s insights serve as a call to action for educators to rethink their approaches to teaching and communicating mathematics. By prioritizing understanding over rote problem-solving, mathematicians can not only enhance the educational experience for students but also redefine their own roles in a world where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent. This shift could lead to a more meaningful engagement with mathematics, ensuring that the discipline retains its relevance and value in the face of technological advancements. Ultimately, Venkatesh’s presentation invites both students and educators to reconsider what it means to study mathematics in the age of AI, emphasizing that the true worth of the discipline lies in its ability to foster critical thinking and a deeper comprehension of the universe.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6ltzaOpPl8
At a recent conference on mathematics in the age of automated proofs, mathematician and Fields Medalist Akshay Venkatesh presented “How do we talk to our students about AI?” He quoted an email he’d received from a young student who asked, “Do you believe that mathematics is worth being studied in a world in which a machine can answer everything for you? What do you believe would be the ‘job’ of a mathematician in this world?” Venkatesh framed AI as an opportunity to correct what he called an “essential gap that has opened between the practice of mathematics and our values.” Mathematician William Thurston has explained these values by writing, “mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations, or algorithms: it is about understanding.” But Venkatesh argued that the record on this is terrible, lamenting that “for a typical paper or talk, very few of us understand it.” He is not alone in thinking that something is wrong with the current state of mathematics research.
