Inside the generational clash over AI in math: 'We don’t have the luxury of waiting'
Some 700 academics called for the cancellation of a student-run AI math event at Caltech. Students say they're only trying to remain relevant.
The generational clash over artificial intelligence's role in mathematics has reached a boiling point at Caltech. Undergraduate organizers of an AI math event resisted calls to cancel, claiming the urgency of the matter outweighed concerns. More than 700 academics and students signed a letter denouncing the event, labeling it as promoting "AI slop."
OpenAI, one of its sponsors, subsequently withdrew its $1 million backing after academic criticism. The organizers insist their goal is to ensure humans remain relevant in an AI-driven field. They argue young mathematicians have fewer resources and uncertain academic futures. Some professors counter that AI-generated work in math is often superficial and requires human insight to interpret.
The organizers secured funding from Anthropic and OpenAI to hold a multi-day "mathathon" where participants could use AI to tackle challenging mathematical problems. The event drew backlash, but organizers argue they are committed to preserving the human element of mathematics while adapting to AI advancements.
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