A computer scientist-novelist reflects on AI and our understanding of maths (scroll.in)

On September 8, OpenAI announced a groundbreaking achievement in the field of mathematics by claiming to have solved the Navier-Stokes problem—the question of whether smooth three-dimensional fluid motion can break down, a mystery that has persisted for nearly 90 years. This monumental task was undertaken by 10,000 AI agents over a span of 88 hours, resulting in two teams, one composed of AI and the other of human mathematicians utilizing AI technology, successfully proving that the Navier-Stokes equation can exhibit singularities. This development not only marks a significant milestone in computational mathematics but also prompts a reevaluation of how mathematics is practiced and understood in the era of AI. The implications of this achievement extend beyond the specific problem at hand. With AI now capable of developing mathematical proofs, the traditional role of human mathematicians may transform, leading to a new paradigm in mathematics where creativity and intuition could take precedence over rigorous proof development. While human mathematicians have historically focused on proving statements, AI's ability to tackle complex problems may shift the human focus towards the underpinning questions and the aesthetic nature of mathematics, inviting a more playful and imaginative approach to the discipline. This evolution raises important considerations for the future of mathematics education and the very essence of what it means to "do" mathematics in an AI-enhanced world.