Can 'Big Math' Solve for the Future? (with Terence Tao and Dawn Nakagawa)

Terence Tao, Fields Medal winner, discusses the evolving landscape of mathematics, from solitary work to collaborative efforts, and the integration of emerging technologies like AI. Tao reflects on his accelerated education, his early fascination with math's abstract problem-solving, and his work on the Green-Tao theorem concerning prime numbers. He notes the shift towards collaborative mathematics, contrasting it with the romanticized image of individual geniuses. The conversation explores AI's potential to streamline mathematical processes, the importance of human intervention in discovering mathematical truths, and the need for responsible AI use to avoid cognitive decline. Tao also touches on the impact of funding uncertainties on academic research and the growing intersection of mathematics with the tech industry.