‘Mathematicians did not ask for this’: Math group calls on researchers to reject OpenAI

Two days after OpenAI released a range of mathematical results produced by one of its internal models, the Association for Human Mathematics (AHM) criticized the Sam Altman-led AI company. AHM's statement condemned the release of 722 manuscripts spanning 372 groups of results, which OpenAI claimed included solutions or significant progress on hundreds of open problems in mathematics and theoretical computer science.

The organization highlighted accusations of illegal plagiarism, copyright infringement, and trademark dilution that have been leveled against OpenAI.

AHM emphasized that mathematicians did not request this work and called for researchers to reject OpenAI's release, urging them to return to a vision of science centered on human understanding. The association criticized OpenAI's use of proprietary internal models to perform mathematical research, warning it risks creating a two-tier system that alienates the mathematical community from its discipline.

The advisory group on mathematics and artificial intelligence (AGMAI), consulted by OpenAI, advised against testing advanced mathematical problems on internal models. However, AHM argued that OpenAI's disregard for these norms indicates total disregard for scientific research standards. These standards, according to AHM, ensure mathematics remains trustworthy, ethically researched, and in the public interest.

AHM urged mathematicians to distance themselves from OpenAI and questioned the value of releasing over 700 files at once, calling it a demonstration of power rather than scholarship. The association emphasized the importance of maintaining human-led research in mathematics amid the increasing use of AI in research and education.