BSHM-Gresham Lecture

Our annual joint lecture with Gresham College in the heart of central London. This year we will hear from Professor Caroline Ehrhardt (Université Paris 8), on: 

How Does Mathematics Last? Heritage and Heritage-making in Mathematics

How is mathematical knowledge recorded and preserved across generations? Contrary to the idea that mathematics itself is somehow ‘permanent’, in this talk we will explore heritage-making in mathematics, that is the people, institutions, and material objects that can give mathematical ideas longevity. We will explore the heritage-making found in two very different types of French nineteenth-century libraries: those of famous mathematicians and those of secondary schools. We will especially focus on how the recording – and forgetting – of mathematical ideas is influenced by their publishing, political, and intellectual contexts. 

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The event will begin with a short prize-giving ceremony for the winners of our student and undergraduate essay prizes, followed by the lecture.

Booking to attend online is now open, and booking to attend in-person will open in early September. You can register through Gresham College here.