August 2026 Thinking Beyond - Is Mathematics Real?

Is 1+1=2 just a statement about the objects in our world? In this talk, we will explore the profound and puzzling relationship between abstract mathematics and physical reality, and ask why, of all human enterprises, it is  physics that seems to be written in mathematics. We’ll look at modular arithmetic, imaginary time, black holes, identical particles, and one of math’s deepest mysteries, the Riemann hypothesis. In the end, maybe physics is simply the act of figuring out which mathematical universe we inhabit.

The “Thinking Beyond” webinar series features renowned physicists Paul Davies, Sara Walker and Maulik Parikh from the Beyond Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science at Arizona State University and addresses a big question/topic in science. This month, Maulik Parikh will present the topic and will be joined by Sara Walker.