Recountings: Conversations with MIT Mathematicians

This book traces the history of the MIT Department of Mathematicsa "one of the most important mathematics departments in the worlda "through candid, in-depth, lively conversations with a select and diverse group of its senior members. The process reveals much about the motivation, path, and impact of research mathematicians in a society that owes so much to this little understood and often mystifying section of its intellectual fabric. At a time when the mathematical experience touches and attracts more laypeople than ever, such a book contributes to our understanding and entertains through its personal approach.

Joel Segel, the editor and interviewer, is a writer and the son of an accomplished mathematician. As such, he brings an understanding of the two cultures and a creative curiosity to the project.