The Proof is in the Code: How a Truth Machine is Transforming Mathematics

Kevin Hartnett

From the four-colour theorem to Lean, the story of machines checking proofs line by line, and what that does to a discipline built on human conviction.

Hartnett follows computer-assisted proof from the four-colour theorem through Lean and the formalisation projects now checking major results line by line. The question underneath is what happens to a discipline built on human conviction when the conviction becomes optional, and whether a proof nobody can hold in their head is still an explanation.

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Tyler Cowen

A very useful book about the history of proving math theorems by computer.

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