Unveiling the Power of Language Models in Mathematical Discovery
Google DeepMind – the research entity that utilizes advanced AI – decided to give its large language model a spin in the thrilling world of mathematics – because who needs mathematicians when you have algorithms, right? They threw heaps of generated content at the wall and surprisingly found some golden nuggets amidst the clutter. Apparently, algorithms have a knack for more than just generating cat memes.
In a riveting publication in Nature, the DeepMind brainiacs proudly announced that their FunSearch, (like mathematical functions search, not “funny search”) cracked an unsolved math problem. It's like saying, "Move over, human intellect; here comes the language model!" According to Pushmeet Kohli, VP of research at Google DeepMind, this was groundbreaking because the solution wasn't even in the training data – it was like magic, but with a sprinkle of algorithmic dust.
Now, large language models are renowned for their creativity – they're like the Picasso of the digital realm, but with more ones and zeros. Enter FunSearch, the unsung hero, proving that even though it produces a lot of gibberish, it can also stumble upon some actual, usable information. It's like having a friend who talks nonsense most of the time but occasionally drops profound wisdom.
FunSearch, has a unique approach. It's a bit like playing hide-and-seek with code – you sketch out a problem in Python, leave out the vital bits, and let FunSearch fill in the blanks. It's like having a coding wizard at your disposal, only you're not entirely sure how the magic works. Alhussein Fawzi, a research scientist at Google DeepMind, candidly admits they don't fully comprehend why it works – but who needs understanding when you've got results?
Picture this: FunSearch wading through millions of suggestions, like a digital Sherlock searching for the truth. It managed to crack the cap set problem, a puzzle that even seasoned mathematicians scratched their heads over. It's the kind of achievement that makes you wonder if algorithms might start asking for Nobel Prizes.
Terence Tao, a Fields Medal winner, finds FunSearch intriguing – because who wouldn't be intrigued by algorithms playing the role of problem-solving prodigies? It's a fresh take on leveraging large language models, turning them into virtual Sherlock Holmes for mathematicians still trying to figure out how to use them effectively.
