Terence Tao: Some math problems may need to be off-limits to AI solvers to preserve their value
NathanpmYoung · x · 2026-09-04
Terence Tao published a new essay arguing that even solving a problem can carry irreversible costs, and that certain classes of mathematical problems may eventually need to be declared off-limits to automated AI solvers.
- A magic button turning unsolved problems into solved ones seems like a free lunch, but answering questions can have irreversible costs: spoilers permanently reduce first-viewing enjoyment; leaking competition info before it starts damages fairness and value
- In AI, problems whose solutions are publicly available are deemed "contaminated" and of permanently reduced utility for evaluating models
- Tao suggests it may become necessary to declare certain problem classes off-limits to automated solvers in order to preserve their broader value to the mathematical ecosystem
Related event: Terence Tao Proposes Keeping Some Open Math Problems Off-Limits to AI(2 posts)→
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