The annual Joint Mathematics Meetings took place in Seattle, attracting over 5,400 mathematicians who attended thousands of talks. This year’s official theme, “Mathematics in the Age of A.I.,” was set to emphasize the impact of artificial intelligence on the field of mathematics. Keynote speaker Yann LeCun discussed the obstacles to achieving human-level A.I. and the need for a “large-scale world model” to advance the technology.
Attendees also enjoyed various events, including an art exhibit, sessions on applied mathematics and the arts, and a mini math festival. Mathematicians showcased their research, such as counting arrangements of circles relevant to 3-D printing and creating art inspired by mathematical concepts like the hyperbolic plane. The public also had the opportunity to engage with mathematics through hands-on puzzles and games, and attend lectures on the mathematics of doodling and the intersection of math, art, and social justice.
Notable moments from the conference included the premiere of a documentary on Black mathematicians and discussions on diversity and representation in mathematics. Overall, the event served as a platform for mathematicians to exchange ideas, explore new research areas, and engage with the wider public on the beauty and relevance of mathematics in various aspects of life.
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