
Public Seminar :Maths-As-It-Could-Be : the life and philosophy of KIYOSHI OKA
17 October 2014, London
Kiyoshi Oka (1901-1978) was one of the greatest Japanese mathematicians of the 20th century. His contribution to mathematics was such that Carl Siegel mistakenly believed ‘Oka’ to be the name of a group of mathematicians. In Japan, Oka is known not only for his tremendous contribution to maths, but also as a great thinker and philosopher. His thoughts were shaped through the prisms of the Japanese language and culture and he was greatly influenced by traditional Zen Buddhist philosophy (in particular, that of Dogen) and Japanese literature such as Matsuo Basho and Natsume Soseki.
In this public seminar, independent scholar Masao Morita will introduce Oka’s unique philosophy of mathematics and the Japanese traditional thoughts underlying his ideas. He will also shed light on Oka’s life and thinking as a mathematician while examining how Oka pursued a "maths as it could be". Joining Morita in discussion will be Professor Tadashi Tokieda from the University of Cambridge.
This event is free to attend but booking is essential. To reserve a place, please email your name and the title of the event you would like to attend to event@jpf.org.uk.
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17 October 2014 |
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The Japan Foundation, Russell Square House, 10-12 Russell Square, London WC1B 5EH |
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This event is free to attend but booking is essential. To reserve a place, please email your name and the title of the event you would like to attend to event@jpf.org.uk. Tel: 020 7436 6695 |
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The Japan Foundation |
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