Andrew Wiles and Fermat's
Last Theorem
In this segment, we will concentrate on the masterpieces of
mathematics.
You might worry that you need to be an experienced mathematician
in order to understand these great ideas. This is not the case.
One can appreciate great works of literature, music and art
without being a writer, composer, or artist. Similarly,
you can appreciate the highlights
and great works of mathematicians.
Read through the sheet, and take
notes while you are watching the video
The Proof.
At the beginning of the video Andrew Wiles addresses the
very first question under Mathematical Style.
Andrew Wiles' Influences, Support and Barriers
What influences led him to become a mathematician / Why did
he become a mathematician?
Did he have support from family and society?
What are his outside interests and hobbies?
What kind of barriers did he face while becoming a mathematician?
Where there any gender, racial, multicultural/ethnic, diversity (broadly defined) issues in his experiences?
Do they have a spouse or partner, and any children? Are any family members also a mathematician or scientist.
Andrew Wiles' Mathematical Style
How does he
describe the process of doing mathematics and/or mathematical research?
How does he get the flashes of insight that he needs to do research?
How does his
mathematical mind work? Does he have a photographic memory?
Is he really good with numbers? Is he good at visualization?
Does he often collaborate (ie write papers with
other mathematicians) or instead mostly work by himself?
How does he describe what mathematics is and/or where it comes from?