AI-generated proofs may be correct, but impossible to verify
burny_tech · x · 2026-07-23
The post argues that once AI starts producing proofs at the level of inter-universal Teichmüller theory or the abc conjecture, verification itself may become extremely difficult.
It makes three main points:
- Some mathematical proofs are already written in highly idiosyncratic language that humans struggle to parse.
- A proof can still be potentially correct even if it is very hard for both humans and machines to verify.
- Improving readability and formal clarity is still valuable, but not always possible without losing rigor.
The broader point is that advanced AI may generate correct-looking results whose validity depends on specialized mathematical language and expensive verification, not just on human readability.
Related event: AI's Impact on Math: Verification, Value, and Education(10 posts)→
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