Steven Strogatz, a Professor of Applied Mathematics at Cornell and author of several popular science books, explores how complex behaviors arise from simple systems. He delves into synchronization, using fireflies as a captivating example of coordinated behavior. Strogatz also tackles the dynamics of connectivity in networks, emphasizing their impact on society and health. He shares insights on the importance of calculus in education, advocating for a nurturing environment in the academic world. Tune in for a fascinating journey through mathematics and its real-world implications!
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Early Academic Challenges
Steven Strogatz initially struggled with a proof-oriented linear algebra class in college, leading him to consider physics.
He found the experience discouraging, but it guided him towards applied mathematics.
insights INSIGHT
Purcell's Insight
Purcell's E&M book explains that the force between charges isn't just a force property but a consequence of spatial symmetry.
This concept fascinated Strogatz, highlighting the elegance of physics arguments based on fundamental principles.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Mathematical Impressionism
Strogatz's firefly research, inspired by their synchronization, used simplified models, not photorealistic ones.
This approach of capturing essence, akin to impressionist painting, influenced how Strogatz makes models.
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In 'Infinite Powers', Steven Strogatz offers a captivating narrative about the history and applications of calculus, from ancient Greece to modern technological advancements. He illustrates how calculus has been instrumental in numerous scientific breakthroughs and innovations, making it a fundamental language of the universe. The book provides an accessible and engaging introduction to calculus, highlighting its simplicity and power in solving real-world problems.
Sync
How Order Emerges From Chaos In the Universe, Nature, and Daily Life
Steven Strogatz
Sync by Steven H. Strogatz delves into the science of synchronization, illustrating how diverse systems, from biological organisms to physical phenomena, can spontaneously synchronize. The book covers topics such as firefly synchronization, circadian rhythms, and technological applications like lasers and GPS. Strogatz presents complex concepts in an engaging and accessible manner, highlighting the unifying power of mathematics across different fields.
One of the most important insights in the history of science is the fact that complex behavior can arise from the undirected movements of small, simple systems. Despite the fact that we know this, we’re still working to truly understand it — to uncover the mechanisms by which, and conditions under which, complexity can emerge from simplicity. (Coincidentally, a new feature in Quanta on this precise topic came out while this episode was being edited.) Steven Strogatz is a leading researcher in this field, a pioneer both in the subject of synchronization and in that of small-world networks. He’s also an avid writer and wide-ranging thinker, so we also talk about problems with the way we educate young scientists, and the importance of calculus, the subject of his new book. Support Mindscape on Patreon or Paypal. Steven Strogatz received his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Harvard, and is currently the Jacob Gould Schurman Professor of Applied Mathematics at Cornell. His work has ranged over a wide variety of topics in mathematical biology, nonlinear dynamics, networks, and complex systems. He is the author of a number of books, including SYNC, The Joy of x, and most recently Infinite Powers. His awards include teaching prizes at MIT and Cornell, as well as major prizes from the Joint Policy Board for Mathematics, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Mathematical Association of America, and the Lewis Thomas Prize. Web site Cornell web page Google scholar page Amazon author page Wikipedia TED talk on synchronization Twitter
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