Terence Tao: AI Could Revolutionize Mathematical Research

The renowned mathematician Terence Tao proposes an innovative vision for the future of mathematics through artificial intelligence (AI). According to him, AI could introduce, for the first time, a true division of labor in this field, which has traditionally been characterized by the individuality of researchers.

Until now, mathematicians had to manage all stages of their research, from defining problems to verifying results. Unlike the natural sciences or industry, specialization has never been a viable option in mathematics, Tao explains.

The introduction of AI and formal verification could transform this dynamic. Tao asserts that these technologies can fill skill gaps in mathematical collaborations. However, he warns of the risks of a flood of untested ideas if AI generates strategies without verifying them.

For Tao, automation must progress in several areas simultaneously to be effective. He also emphasizes that humans remain essential in this process, as AI exhibits uneven performance, a principle applicable to many other sectors.

Tao's vision, which he calls "industrial mathematics," could see large teams, supported by AI, conducting broader but less in-depth research. While AI would process billions of data points, humans would continue to formulate "inspired hypotheses" from a limited number of observations.

Tao specifies that the level of automation and the power of AI that can be used cost-effectively is proportional to the rigor of the verification put in place, in order to avoid chaos.