Mathematics for Humans

Event time: 
Thursday, February 25, 2021 - 8:00pm
Event description: 

The product of mathematics is clarity and understanding. Not theorems, by themselves.  - Bill Thurston

Does one have to be a genius to do mathematics? The answer is an emphatic NO.  - Terry Tao

Why do mathematics? This is a simple question, but worth considerable reflection. Because how you answer will strongly determine who you think should be doing mathematics, and how you will teach it. - Francis Su

The “Mathematics for Humans” reading group will have its second meeting on Thursday February 25 at 8pm. Sponsored by the departmental climate committee, the goal of this group is to promote discussion in the department about what it means to do mathematics and be a mathematician. All are invited! From undergraduate students through senior faculty, we hope that diverse members of the department are represented. Unlike most reading groups, no homework or reading is required outside of the meetings. Each meeting will feature a short piece, and we will begin with a silent period to read it, followed by discussion in small groups. In advance of his colloquium on March 3 we will be reading a piece by Francis Su.

Special note: 
Hope to see you there, Ian (on behalf of the Climate Committee)