How Do Mathematicians Know Their Proofs Are Correct?

13 Jul 2022 · 28 min

Episode How Do Mathematicians Know Their Proofs Are Correct?

0:00 28:25

Just as scientists test hypotheses, mathematicians prove or disprove conjectures. But what makes a proof stronger than a guess? What does evidence look like in the world of mathematics? Hear Melanie Matchett Wood, professor of mathematics at Harvard University, explain how probability helps to guide number theorists toward certainty.

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