Find out more about Bitdefender’s two decades of unparalleled cybersecurity excellence: https://bitdefend.me/StarTalkTA Is math discovered or invented? Neil deGrasse Tyson & Chuck Nice explore information theory, talking to aliens with prime numbers, Mandelbrot sets, and why math is often called the "language of the universe" with Grant Sanderson, the math educator behind YouTube channel @3blue1brown Chuck asks the big question: “What the hell is math?” Grant explains that math goes beyond numbers and symbols—it's a universal system of truth rooted in axioms, like those laid out by Euclid in geometry. But is it a tool we invented, or a discovery we unearthed from the natural world? We explore both perspectives discussing how humans have shaped and been shaped by mathematical concepts over time. Learn how math connects us to the universe—literally. Could aliens understand prime numbers? Could we communicate with aliens using math? We discuss practical applications and how we benefit from the mental rigor math provides. Should math be taught as an art form? Plus, learn about Mandelbrot sets and how simple math can yield complex structures. We break down complex topics like information theory, and the central limit theorem, revealing how even the most abstract math finds its way into practical and scientific use. Learn how AI is entering the mathematical landscape, helping to solve problems that previously seemed out of reach. Tune in for a fascinating journey through the beauty, challenges, and infinite possibilities of math! Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: 3Blue1Brown 02:50 - What is Math? 09:31 - Is Math Invented or Discovered? 14:05 - How Do You Make People Like Math? 18:28 - Information Theory & Wordle 23:20 - Central Limit Theorem 30:18 - Mandelbrot Sets & Fractals 38:58 - AI in Math 42:30 - Looking at Irrational Numbers 47:42 - Black Hole Math 50:32 - The Beauty of Mathematics 56:38 - Closing Thoughts Check out our second channel, @StarTalkPlus Get the NEW StarTalk book, 'To Infinity and Beyond: A Journey of Cosmic Discovery' on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PL0NFn Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/startalkradio FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to StarTalk: Twitter: http://twitter.com/startalkradio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarTalk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startalk About StarTalk: Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up! #StarTalk #NeildeGrasseTyson