Artificial intelligence is transforming the world around us, and the field of mathematics is no exception. Tools capable of advanced scientific reasoning are increasingly available to mathematics researchers, and in May an OpenAI tool was even used to disprove one of Erdős’ long-standing conjectures. However, as with all technological developments, we have a choice on whether we choose to adopt such tools, and, if we do, in what manner.
In response to these developments, a group of academics have published the Leiden Declaration: a recommended set of guidelines encouraging the fair and transparent use of AI. They highlight five main concerns with the adoption of AI tools, namely: the loss of the art of mathematical proof; lack of proper attribution; inequality of opportunity in access to tools; oversimplification of the scientific review process and a loss of autonomy in the direction of the field. In this Virtual Maths Tea (VMT) hosted by the IMA Early Career Mathematicians Committee, we will discuss the points made in the Leiden Declaration and how they fit with the way we use AI in our own lives. We invite you to join us for this informal and open discussion to share your opinion on the role of AI in mathematics research, and whether you will be signing the declaration.
Register for this free event – https://my.ima.org.uk/
Final information will be sent out 24 hours before the event.
A Virtual Maths Tea (VMT) is an online event hosted by the Early Career Mathematicians committee where we invite participants to join us for an informal discussion about a topic related to mathematics or the mathematics community. If the topic of this VMT is not for you but you would like to join one in the future, please check the events page for all of our upcoming VMTs. If you have an idea for a VMT topic or would like to co-host a VMT with the ECM committee, you can get in contact via ecm@ima.org.uk.
