4 ms·
You're right. It does seem ageist, when seen in isolation from the outside. It seems to suggest that the field of mathematics only and solely cares about the wo
by Kalium 8y ago
You're right. It does seem ageist, when seen in isolation from the outside. It seems to suggest that the field of mathematics only and solely cares about the work of young mathematicians.
Yet, is it perhaps possible that this position may signify a person possessed of a wonderful opportunity to become more educated? The Fields Medal is not intended to be the capstone recognition of a mathematcian's career any more than the Clark Medal is in economics. It's intended to award outstanding achievement for a younger contributor in a field that infamously tends to worship the more senior. The IMU awards other medals as well, including one for lifetime achievement.
In short, you're completely right to be bummed out! But perhaps you could take this glorious opportunity to learn more.
- beambot 8y agoHence my ask in the edit: which specific prize / award / recognition can I follow as an amateur math afficionado that doesn't suffer from age bias? You didn't mention one, beyond saying that it exists or that it's given in special circumstances... Which is the challenge re:Fields being the most prestigious.
- Kalium 8y agoYou're right! Perhaps you might start here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Mathematical_Union#Prizes https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Mathematical_Uni... I was attempting to encourage you to engage in the wonders of self-education through research, rather than spoon-feed you particular answers. Please accept my apologies for mistaking your desires.
- FiatLuxDave 8y agoYou may be looking for the Abel Prize.