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Active Quote by Herbert Wilf

“The research reported on in our book "A=B", has moved a whole active field of mathematics from the province of human thought to the realm of computer-fodder. It is quite exciting to think about what other fields of pure mathematics, hitherto thought to be reserved to human intelligence, might be…” quote by Herbert Wilf
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“The research reported on in our book "A=B", has moved a whole active field of mathematics from the province of human thought to the realm of computer-fodder. It is quite exciting to think about what other fields of pure mathematics, hitherto thought to be reserved to human intelligence, might be moved to that realm next. The goal is to put ourselves out of business completely, and the work is well underway.”

Herbert Wilf

About This Quote

Source Book: A=B by Herbert Wilf and Doron Zeilberger, 1990

The quote says that computer algorithms are now solving problems once thought only humans could handle, and this may continue across mathematics.

In simple terms: Computers are solving pure math problems.

Key Takeaway

Embrace automation in research.

Themes

technology automation mathematics future labor

Mood

optimistic curious analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research labs
  • academic curricula
  • industry R&D
  • policy planning

Key Concepts

algorithmic proof computational mathematics AI human‑machine collaboration

Questions to Reflect On

  • What problems should remain human‑centric?
  • How to balance automation with understanding?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on computers may reduce deep human insight.

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