Beautiful Young Minds
October 14th, 2007Updated now that I’ve obtained a copy. If you’re in the UK, have a windows computer and are willing to use Internet Explorer, then you can currently download the program through the BBC’s iplayer service. It’s wrapped up in DRM, but the 7 day viewing licence granted means you can liberate it with FairUse4WM.
During my summer research at Bath I was briefly involved with preparations for the International Mathematical Olympiad, helping to mark the scripts that would select the shortlist of candidates for further training. Perhaps inspired by the drama that had surrounded the previous year (including a hurricane and a case of mistaken identity -as a murderer- for our team leader) , a film crew had been following the process. Tonight (Sunday 14th) their documentary, Beautiful Young Minds, aired.
The program mostly focused on personalities, rather than the mathematics, with particular interest in how those on the autistic spectrum can find refuge in the subject. This is certainly true, as characteristics that would be of hindrance in many pursuits can be an advantage in mathematical study: particularly of the kind needed for intense IMO training. Plus plenty of mathematicians not on the spectrum - myself included, although through different causes - would nonetheless identify with many of the traits associated with Aspergers.
But it’s a little disappointing that this was the main image portrayed of mathematicians- other members of the team were sociable and eloquent, but this was only highlighted to draw contrasts with the main subjects. At least they hinted that being a mathematician still isn’t easy for these individuals, whilst illustrating that the autistic spectrum contains a range of manifestations: Jos doesn’t find an emotional connection with the others, it just matters less; whilst Daniel is still too disturbed by crowds to collect his medals and gain the public recognition he deserves. I don’t think most people realise how social mathematics is as a discipline; the IMO experience is also rather different to undergraduate mathematics, with research in the subject requiring yet another skill set and outlook- the program didn’t help this, and I’m not sure it’ll attract many more people to the subject… Still, a fascinating bit of TV, although it was slightly strange to see Geoff on screen!