Mathematics in the Library of Babel (www.daniellitt.com)

In a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of mathematics and artificial intelligence, a recent project called "First Proof" has yielded promising results regarding the capabilities of AI models in generating mathematical proofs. The initiative, which involved renowned mathematicians, assessed the ability of current AI tools to autonomously prove ten selected lemmas from their unpublished work. While initial expectations were modest, predicting that the models would solve only a fraction of the problems, it turned out that between six to eight lemmas were successfully addressed, showcasing a marked improvement in AI's ability to tackle mathematical challenges. This development is significant for the AI/ML community as it marks a pivotal moment in the quest to automate certain aspects of mathematical research. With advanced models like ChatGPT 5.2 Pro and tools such as OpenAI's Codex showing increased proficiency in reasoning and proof generation, we're witnessing a gradual shift towards more autonomous mathematical inquiry. Insights from this project suggest that, with proper guidance and scaffolding, AI may soon be capable of producing research-quality mathematics comparable to some human experts. This evolution raises critical questions about the future role of mathematicians, the accuracy of AI-generated proofs, and the potential for further advancements that could redefine the landscape of mathematical research.