Perfect Rigour: A Genius and the Mathematical Breakthrough of the Century

9 hrs. 17 min.

Language Russian

Author Masha Gessen

Narrator Leontina Brotskaya

Description

In 2002, the Russian mathematician Grigory Perelman published online a proof of the Poincaré conjecture—one of the seven “Millennium Prize Problems”, for each of which the American Clay Institute established a one-million-dollar prize. But there was no triumph: Perelman refused to play by the rules of the mathematical community, turned down work at the best universities, and in the end didn’t accept the “Millennium Prize”. The scientist stated that he no longer worked on mathematics and cut himself off from the outside world.

Well-known journalist and writer, deputy editor-in-chief of the project “Snob” Masha Gessen studies the phenomenon of Perelman based on testimony from his teachers, colleagues, and classmates—and undeniable facts. Gessen’s book not only clearly and accessibly explains what lies at the heart of the breakthrough made by the Russian mathematician, but also helps you understand the logic of genius and develop deep respect for him.