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List of mathematician-politicians

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Historians of mathematics have noted the involvement of prominent mathematicians in politics at various times and places, notably in Italy during the period of unification at the end of the nineteenth century.[1]

Those who become legislators attempt to use their mathematical skills to legitimise their political positions.[1] However, some parliamentary colleagues tend to view them as failing to connect with the real world.[1]

A maths columnist for Forbes suggested in 2018 that mathematicians in politics would contribute strengths including problem-solving, creativity, overcoming challenges, and collaboration.[2]

John Derbyshire observed in 2003 that mathematicians have no dominant tendency; for example, Cauchy was a reactionary whereas Galois was a radical.[3] He opines that the most influential research mathematicians do not give much thought to politics.[4]

Notable mathematician-politicians

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This is a list of people who at some points in their lives achieved notability both as academically trained mathematicians (with a graduate degree, or published in mathematical journals) and also as elected politicians (at a state or national level).

References

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  1. ^ a b c Durand, Antonin (March 2017). "Mathematicians and politics: new research scenarios?". Lettera Matematica. 4 (3–4). Springer Milan: 161–165. doi:10.1007/s40329-016-0149-x. ISSN 2281-5937. S2CID 151442761.
  2. ^ Crowell, Rachel (24 August 2018). "Mathematicians Would Make Great Elected Officials. Here's Why". Forbes. Retrieved 23 July 2019.
  3. ^ Derbyshire, John (October 2003). "Politics, Religion, and Prime Obsession". Archived from the original on 2005-02-07. Retrieved 23 July 2019.
  4. ^ Derbyshire, John (12 February 2005). "The Politics of Mathematicians". National Review. Retrieved 23 July 2019.
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