Terence Tao: Mathematics in the Age of AI [pdf] (teorth.github.io)

In a thought-provoking public lecture at the International Congress of Mathematicians 2026, renowned mathematician Terence Tao addressed the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the foundations of mathematics. Tao posits that we are witnessing a pivotal moment akin to the early 20th-century crisis in mathematical foundations, which led to a rigorous reevaluation of mathematical principles. He urges the mathematical community to critically assess its goals and values in light of AI's growing capabilities and its ability to tackle research-level mathematical tasks. The talk centers on a proposed AI Capability Conjecture, suggesting that AI tools will likely achieve significant success in solving complex mathematical problems, which may fundamentally reshape mathematical practices. Tao highlights the urgent need for the community to define its objectives clearly in the era of AI, stressing that the current reliance on AI could lead to diverging goals rather than harmony in mathematical research. The implications of his argument are profound: if we optimize purely for problem-solving, we risk prioritizing quantity over quality, potentially leading to incorrect solutions. Tao calls for a balanced approach that preserves the integrity of mathematical research while embracing AI's potential, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a culture that values rigorous verification and understanding of solutions generated by AI.