But since I am not a mathematcian myself, I wonder what doors they open, and what society will find behind them. Therefore like to learn from you how mathematicians view their role in society. With the relationship between science and society in mind, I sent three questions to over a dozen of world's most eminent mathematicians and I am very grateful for all the answers I received. For the first two questions, I refered to the distinction between pure and applied mathematics cited in the Declaration of Rio. The first questions concerns Pure mathematics .
Pure mathematics seems to function within a realm of complete independence.
Its results have their purpose not in their usefulness to society, but in their Truth. The clarity of this truthfinds a beauty which elevates pure mathematics to an art form. But, in contrast to a harpist who delights others by her music, I fear that the pure mathematician cannot make his art accessible to a wider public. I agree that I am convinced of the need of mathematical thinking as a fundamental component of the modern World. Historically mathematics has been a key to open the doors to Englightment.