Title: What is quantitative topology?
Speaker: Fedor (Fedya) Manin (OSU)
Abstract: Starting with the foundational results of Serre and Thom, topology has mostly operated through reducing problems to algebra and then solving the resulting algebraic questions. While this method has been wildly successful at producing results and classifications, it often makes it hard to understand the shapes of the solutions. I will explain why some of us are unsatisfied with this state of affairs and what we are trying to do about it.
Note: The goal of the Welcome Seminar is to give an opportunity to new postdoctoral fellows and new professors to introduce themselves to their colleagues. The talks are intended to be non-technical and accessible to graduate students as well. Please plan to attend and encourage your colleagues to do so as well. It will be preceded by a colloquium-style reception at 4:00, in the area adjacent to CH240 on the second floor of the Math Building.
