The Math Life

What is it like being a mathematician? On the downside, people at cocktail parties feel compelled to tell you how much they hate your field (oh, those high school calculus memories). And since mathematicians don't work in a laboratory, there are often few tangibles to show for your efforts (products but no product). On the upside, however, mathematicians are “in touch with the infinite and the perfect,” which is certainly more than most members of the workforce can claim. Featuring interviews with 17 mathematicians (including Freeman Dyson), who reflect on their profession and its meaning, The Math Life examines the intersection between number theory, proofs, and uncertainty (probability theory)--among other mathematical concepts--and “the real world.” Nicely illustrated with computer animation, fine art, graphics, and demonstrations, this National Science Foundation-funded production will hopefully pique the curiosity of students contemplating career paths. Recommended. Aud: H, C. (R. Reagan)