Diving into Mathematics with Emmy Noether
Emmy Noether was one of the twentieth century's most important mathematicians. Her contributions, spanning invariant theory, the calculus of variations, abstract algebra, and number theory, combined with her mathematical philosophy have had a profound impact in mathematics, physics, and beyond.
In this session, supplementing the evening's performance of the play Diving into Math with Emmy Noether, the presenters will give short general audience talks on various aspects of Noether's life, contributions, and impact, to be followed by time for questions and a panel discussion.
Agenda
3:00-3:30 Refreshments and socialization, Vincent Hall 120 (Commons room)
3:30-4:30 Presentations and questions, Vincent Hall 16
David Rowe (Institut für Mathematik, Johannes Gutenberg University, Germany) — Emmy Noether: from Invariant Theory to Physics to Abstract Algebra
Peter Olver (Mathematics, University of Minnesota) — The Curious History of Noether's Two Theorems
Peter Webb (Mathematics, University of Minnesota) — Noether's Impact in Algebra
Fiona Burrell (Physics, University of Minnesota) — Noether's Impact in Modern Physics
4:30-5:00 Panel discussion, Vincent Hall 16
7:00 p.m. Performance of Diving into Mathematics with Emily Noether
Coffman Union Theater
Emmy Noether (1882-1935) was one of the most influential mathematicians of the last century. Her works and teachings left a lasting mark on modern algebra, opening new avenues for a new structural perspective in mathematics. Noether was also one of the first women to gain the right to teach at a German university. She acquired that certification (Habilitation) on June 4, 1919, after submitting a thesis in which she solved one of the central problems in Einstein’s general theory of relativity. Her two celebrated theorems relating symmetries of variational problems and conservation laws of the field equations form the cornerstone of modern physical theories and beyond.
To celebrate the centenary of this event and the career of a unique personality in the history of mathematics, the ensemble Portrait Theater Vienna has produced a biographical play, directed by Sandra Schüddekopf and starring Anita Zieher as Emmy. The play is based on historical documents and events, and was written in cooperation with the historians Mechthild Koreuber and David E. Rowe. Further information can be found on the play’s website.
The University of Minnesota is pleased to announce that an English-language version of the play will performed on Sep 26, 2023 at 7 p.m. in Coffman Memorial Theater. Associated events are being planned to showcase the mathematical, scientific, and philosophical impact of Emmy Noether’s legacy.
