Economist Podcasts Economist Podcasts

Out-numbered: AI’s contentious maths milestone

Sep 11, 2026 · 22m

Summary

This episode examines OpenAI’s claim to have solved the Navier-Stokes millennium prize problem, sparking debate over whether AI solutions lack the mathematical insights traditionally valued by the community. It also marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11, analyzing how post-attack counterterrorism laws are being repurposed by the current administration and whether Congress should rein in these expanded powers. Finally, the show features a tribute to the late Chinese opera legend Guo Lanying, reflecting on her brutal upbringing and enduring cultural impact.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Hotels.com business travel Sponsor: NEA back to school Episode introduction and agenda OpenAI claims solution to Navier-Stokes problem Interview with Sam Wylie: Context and reactions Explaining the Navier-Stokes existence and smoothness problem How OpenAI's AI agents solved the problem Controversy: Mathematicians' concerns and lack of detail Implications for mathematics and credit for the solution Sponsor: Bill finance platform Sponsor: Barclays Flip Side podcast 25th anniversary of 9/11 and counterterrorism laws Interview with Sam Beal: Current state of debate Overview of post-9/11 legal powers and agencies Trump administration's use of counterterrorism tools Changes in the terrorist threat landscape Efforts to reform or repeal post-9/11 laws Closing of counterterrorism segment Promo: Insider podcast on Islam in Europe Tribute to Chinese opera singer Guo Lanying Credits and production team Preview: Tommy Robinson series Sponsor: NEA back to school Sponsor: Paylocity platform
Listen ad-free on Castria