Adverse Quote by John Edensor Littlewood
“It is true that I should have been surprised in the past to learn that Professor Hardy had joined the Oxford Group. But one could not say the adverse chance was 1:10. Mathematics is a dangerous profession; an appreciable proportion of us go mad, and then this particular event would be quite likely.”
About This Quote
Source Letter to G.H. Hardy, 1935
He humorously notes the low probability of a mathematician's madness, implying that the profession's challenges make such outcomes plausible.
In simple terms: Mathematicians often face mental strain, making madness seem likely.
Key Takeaway
Recognize mental health risks.
Themes
mathematics
mental health
probability
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
reflective
informative
When to use this quote
- career planning
- stress management
Key Concepts
academic life
research pressure
Questions to Reflect On
- How can mathematicians protect their mental well‑being?
- What support systems exist for academic stress?
A Different Perspective
Statistical analogies may oversimplify complex causes.
![“I constantly meet people who are doubtful, generally without due reason, about their potential capacity [as mathematicians]. The first test is whether you got anything out of geometry. To have disliked or failed to get on with other [mathematical] subjects need mean nothing; much drill and…” quote by John Edensor Littlewood](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ad0/john-edensor-littlewood-23851_born_i-constantly-meet-people-who-are-doubtfu_1210950.jpg)
