Steve Strogatz

Steven Strogatz, a Professor of Applied Mathematics at Cornell University, shares his passion for math and its beauty. He reflects on his early fascination with numbers and the pivotal role of inspiring teachers. The conversation spans from the intersection of calculus and HIV treatment to the everyday impact of GPS technology rooted in Einstein's theories. Strogatz also discusses the chaotic nature of human behavior and cooperation, illustrating the challenges of modeling it in social sciences. It’s a journey that reveals math as a tool for deeper understanding.

Join mathematician Steven Strogatz, a professor at Cornell University, as he dives into a philosophical and mathematical inquiry sparked by a listener's question about the 'most average size' in the universe. They explore the fascinating concept of scale, wrestling with everything from the minuscule world of atoms to the grandeur of galaxies. Strogatz uncovers that the midpoint may actually relate to a large eukaryotic cell. This thought-provoking conversation highlights how mathematics intersects with our understanding of existence and identity.