Famous french mathematician Cedric Villani, the winner of the prestigious award Fields Medal, which he won in 2010 for his work on optimal transport and kinetic theory, held a conference at high school “Svetozar Marković” in Niš, Serbia, as part of his Balkan tour. On this occasion Cedric Villani spoke to Ananas Magazine about his personal goals, Fields Medal, brooches in a shape of spiders (by which he is recognized) and other topics.
In which way did Fields Medal affect your life?
Cedric Villani: Fields Medal affected my life in many ways. Because of that, I’ve spent most of my time lecturing, traveling and appearing in the media and so on.
You pointed out that math is sexy, at TED conference. Would you explain that?
Cedric Villani: My point was mainly to remind everyone that mathematics is a fascinating adventure! It’s exciting! It’s difficult but fun! Math is full of new discoveries and new meanings for the world.
Do you have a career goal that you haven’t accomplished yet, considering winning Fields Medal?
Cedric Villani: Fields Medal came in for some theorem which I did not intend to prove at first, but I have not yet accomplished most of my big goals. In a life of the researcher, most of the things you try – you’ll fail.
I’m not going to ask you about the meaning of your spider-brooches because I know you’re not going to tell me. But do you have a brooch that you prefer to others, because of some sentimental meaning?
Cedric Villani: Oh, I have a number of them which are very dear to me. Some of them were given to me by friends or they were associated with important memories.
What advice would you give to young mathematicians?
Cedric Villani: They should work out their passion! Young mathematician in high school should work, travel and always be curious about everything. They also need to get to know their culture, not just to learn and improve their technique.