Math Club (Talk by Professor Biddle)

Join the math club in Whitney Hall 100E 6:30-7:30p for a talk by Professor Biddle. Abstract below:

Title: Proof by Swindle

Abstract: In the late 1950s, Samuel Eilenberg, working in module theory, and Barry Mazur, working in geometric topology, independently proved unrelated theorems using strikingly similar techniques—methods that, at first glance, seem almost too good to be true. Yet, despite their apparent mathematical sleight of hand, both proofs are entirely rigorous. In this talk, I will explore what has come to be known as the "Eilenberg-Mazur Swindle" and examine related 'swindles' that cleverly exploit infinite series in seemingly inappropriate ways. Topics include set theory, knot theory, abstract algebra, and infinite series.

Math Club | Website | View More Events

Contact the organizers