Recently, renowned mathematician Terence Tao, in an interview with The Atlantic, stated that artificial intelligence may never replace human mathematicians. Tao, often hailed as "the greatest living mathematician in the world," believes there is a fundamental distinction between AI and human mathematicians.
Image Source: Picture generated by AI, authorized service provider Midjourney
Tao pointed out that the key difference between graduate students and AI lies in the ability of the former to learn and improve. While AI might temporarily adjust its approach in the face of failure, it sometimes reverts to previously attempted methods. In contrast, human mathematicians continuously learn and evolve, driving the advancement of mathematics.
Tao also noted that for mathematical geniuses, the future might be one of collaboration between AI and mathematicians. AI could assist in solving large-scale, complex problems, while human mathematicians could leverage AI's capabilities to explore new frontiers in mathematics. Tao anticipates that AI in the future will serve as a tool for mathematicians rather than a replacement.
Tao's views have sparked reflections on the interplay between AI and the field of mathematics. As AI technology advances, what will the future of mathematics look like? Tao's perspective offers us a fresh viewpoint.