Sarah Hart

Mathematician Sarah Hart, a fellow at Birkbeck University, joins comedian Dave Gorman and Thomas Woolley to explore nature's geometry. They discuss how evolution crafts elegant forms, like tortoise shells and the leaf distribution of trees. The conversation touches on Alan Turing’s influence on animal patterns, the mystery of the golden ratio, and even Gorman's quirky disdain for oblongs. With humor and insight, they reveal the mathematical wonders embedded in the natural world.

Sarah Hart, Professor emerita of mathematics at the University of London, intertwines mathematics with music and literature in a fascinating discussion. She explores how mathematical structures influence musical compositions, enhancing our auditory experiences. Hart also delves into the patterns and rhythms that connect numbers with narratives, highlighting Lewis Carroll's playful use of logic and the creative potential within mathematical constraints. Listeners are invited to appreciate the beauty found in the harmony of math, music, and storytelling.

Sarah Hart, Professor Emerita of Geometry and Mathematics at Birkbeck, dives into the fascinating world of coincidences. She explains how what we consider random occurrences are grounded in mathematical principles. Hart discusses the probability behind events like matching PINs and the surprising frequency of coincidences in social networks. She addresses misconceptions about luck, using lottery wins as an example, and even delves into the allure of psychic predictions, revealing the math that demystifies these phenomena.

Joining the conversation is Sarah Hart, Gresham Professor of Geometry and author known for weaving math into literature. She dives into the beauty of patterns in everyday life and how constraints can spark creativity in storytelling. Sarah discusses the fascinating intersection of math and literature, from haikus to graph theory in narratives. She advocates for engaging teaching methods that blend creativity with math, sharing how innovative approaches can inspire students to embrace the subject with joy and curiosity.

Sarah Hart, a professor at Birkbeck College and Gresham Professor of Geometry, shares her passion for the intersection of mathematics and music. She demonstrates how whole numbers resonate with pleasing sounds and reveals the fascinating imperfections of octaves. The conversation touches on the gender gap in mathematics and the importance of creative teaching in making math accessible. Hart also discusses overcoming creative slumps, emphasizing adaptability and inspiration as keys to success in both math and the arts.