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Duong Phong
I have always been fascinated by the power of
mathematics in explaining some of the most complex
natural phenomena. Some of my greatest early thrills
came from appreciating how calculus can explain
Kepler's laws of planetary motion, and how much
information is encoded in the deceptively simple
Maxwell equations. The role of mathematics in
formulating and exploring natural laws is expanding,
and this is a very exciting development for the young
mathematicians of the 21st century.
Mathematics is also distinguished by its mental discipline
and uncompromising rigor. This aspect can be tedious at times,
but it becomes particularly valuable in areas of science
where experimental confirmation is hard to come by.
I should say that I find mathematics very difficult.
Research is for me a constant struggle with my own ignorance
and confusion, and no progress has materialized for me
without its heavy toll in effort and frustration. So I
cannot say that I experience often the almost childish joy
described by many mathematicians when they work on their
discipline. But I certainly share their intense satisfaction
when progress is made.
In the world of mathematics, I have encountered some of the
most brilliant, generous, and righteous people that I have
ever met. It is a great privilege to live in this world. |
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