4 ms·

Counter-example: Yitang Zhang's (recent) proof of a finite bound on gaps between prime numbers.

• bambax 10y ago
  From the article: > While it is true that several major problems have been solved, and several important theories introduced, by precisely such an obsessive approach, this has only worked out well when the mathematician involved had a proven track record of reliably producing significant papers in the area already; and had a secure career (e.g. a tenured position).
  • deleted 10y ago
    [deleted]
  • hyperpape 10y ago
    Zhang was surprising precisely because he didn't have that track record: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yitang_Zhang https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yitang_Zhang.