Terence Tao on Reimagining Mathematics in the Age of AI
Terence Tao's new essay discusses the need to rethink the goals of mathematical research in the age of artificial intelligence. He argues that mathematicians will not lose their jobs, even if AI changes the way problems are solved.
Terence Tao on Reimagining Mathematics in the Age of AI
Terence Tao has released a new essay entirely dedicated to the problem of rethinking mathematics in the age of AI.
In short, the scholar suggests that we should stop arguing about how powerful AI will become in mathematics and instead consider what the true goal of mathematical research is when problem-solving is no longer a bottleneck.
In reality, solving a problem is not just about finding a solution. Upon closer examination, the process unfolds in five stages: proof generation → verification → clear exposition → acceptance by the community → canonization (embedding into textbooks and the standard apparatus of the field).
AI takes on only the first two points. The rest remains with humans, namely: understanding, explanation, public discussions, linking found solutions with existing theory, and turning them into material that can truly be used for the benefit of science. This can all be summarized as "collective knowledge assimilation," which is not amenable to automation.
Thus, Tao's thesis is that mathematicians will not lose their jobs, even when AI completely devalues the search for solutions. Their work will simply shift to what was once considered less prestigious but has always been at the core of science – understanding and exposition.
Why it matters
AnalysisThis essay is important as it emphasizes that even with the rise of AI, the role of mathematics and mathematicians remains crucial. Understanding and explaining theories are critical for the advancement of science.
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