DARPA's new grant program, "Exponentiating Mathematics," aims to accelerate pure math research by integrating AI as a co-author, promising extensive benefits for mathematicians and society.
A.I. Takes on Mathematics: DARPA's Bold Initiative to Enhance Discovery
A.I. Takes on Mathematics: DARPA's Bold Initiative to Enhance Discovery
The Defense Department's DARPA launches a program to harness artificial intelligence in the quest for rapid advancements in pure mathematics.
Artificial intelligence has attempted many creative tasks, like writing poetry and giving culinary advice, but struggles with complex math. However, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is turning to this technology to enhance advancements in pure mathematics. Their freshly launched initiative, "Exponentiating Mathematics," is designed to explore how AI can work alongside researchers to expedite fundamental discoveries.
Patrick Shafto, a mathematician and computer scientist with DARPA, emphasized that mathematics serves as a significant test for current AI systems. Overcoming existing limitations could unlock greater capabilities for AI, ultimately benefiting the broader mathematical community and society. He stated, “If we overcome that, potentially, it would unleash much more powerful A.I.”
In an interview from his DARPA office, located in a nondescript building in Northern Virginia, Shafto compared the potential improvements in mathematics to a virtuous cycle that could enhance our understanding of AI itself. Alondra Nelson, former science adviser to President Biden and now at the Institute for Advanced Study, echoed this insight, predicting that capable AI could bolster fields like cryptography and advance space research.
DARPA, founded post-World War II to outpace Soviet innovations, is renowned for its groundbreaking work, including the precursor to the internet, ARPANET. However, its legacy includes both revolutionary advancements, like drones and voice assistants, and military developments such as Agent Orange.
As the "Exponentiating Mathematics" program unfolds, it embodies a visionary approach to integrate AI into the lithe and rigorous realm of mathematics, aiming to construct a pathway for unparalleled progress.
Patrick Shafto, a mathematician and computer scientist with DARPA, emphasized that mathematics serves as a significant test for current AI systems. Overcoming existing limitations could unlock greater capabilities for AI, ultimately benefiting the broader mathematical community and society. He stated, “If we overcome that, potentially, it would unleash much more powerful A.I.”
In an interview from his DARPA office, located in a nondescript building in Northern Virginia, Shafto compared the potential improvements in mathematics to a virtuous cycle that could enhance our understanding of AI itself. Alondra Nelson, former science adviser to President Biden and now at the Institute for Advanced Study, echoed this insight, predicting that capable AI could bolster fields like cryptography and advance space research.
DARPA, founded post-World War II to outpace Soviet innovations, is renowned for its groundbreaking work, including the precursor to the internet, ARPANET. However, its legacy includes both revolutionary advancements, like drones and voice assistants, and military developments such as Agent Orange.
As the "Exponentiating Mathematics" program unfolds, it embodies a visionary approach to integrate AI into the lithe and rigorous realm of mathematics, aiming to construct a pathway for unparalleled progress.
