How Hard Can It Be?
Margaret
H. Wright
Silver
Professor of Computer Science
Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences
New York University
November 2, 2006
7:00 pm, Willey Hall 125 Map
Lecture Video (flv)
Slides
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Gallery
Postcard: pdf
Abstract:
Some problems in life are very hard (achieving world peace)
while others
are, at least for many of us, pretty easy (eating a good
breakfast).
How can we figure out which are which? Math can often tell us
precisely
how hard real-world problems are—but not always. We'll look
at
easy problems, hard problems, the sources of hardness, and
puzzling
instances where problems are invariably easier than today's
math says
they should be.
Math Matters lectures feature distinguished
mathematicians and
scientists who are also superb expositors able to illuminate
the role mathematics is playing in understanding our world and
shaping our lives. The lectures are aimed at a broad audience.
Math Matters - Public Lecture
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