Mathematics
Math and Physics Think Tanks – What’s the best group size?
Did you know that a good number of the most influential research institutions in the world revolve around mathematical analytics embedded in problem solving? In fact, these research centers use mathematical equations to discover the most appropriate solution to the major economic, military, energy and infrastructure challenges facing humanity. Why is this you ask? Well, it’s a lot about coming to a conclusion without making a mistake, and stacking the stack in your favor based on the probability of a positive outcome.
Of course, to do this, you first need to know what mathematical equations to use. But this requires an entirely different kind of think tank. It requires an intellectual center that revolves around mathematics, not around specific problems. In other words, you have to develop the correct math first, before you can solve anything. Therefore, if a group of individuals is trying to come up with the best solution, they should first refer to the mathematics arm of the group to give them the appropriate analytical basis.
Now then, helping one decide what size a thinking group should be in Physics or Mathematics is not that easy? Well, it turns out we need to go back to the group itself, and calculate the best-sized group for that field of science. It turns out that there is a mathematical formula that determines which size is the best mathematical mastermind group. Isn’t that interesting? And believe it or not, it has been statistically proven that the size of these groups matters more than you think.
In fact, there was an interesting article recently published in Physics World, written by News Editor Michael Banks, titled; “Why 13 and 25 are Magic Numbers for Physicists” and was posted online on June 9, 2011. The article explained that there is a mathematical basis for the efficiency of success in experimental physics groups and mathematical think tanks. You see if the group is too small, it tends not to have big breakthroughs, but if it’s too big, the personalities and the egos and the discussions take too long and little will get done, and sometimes nothing gets done. Article states;
“Two physicists have, for the first time, determined how the increasing size of research groups in physics affects the quality of work they can produce. They conclude that the best group size for experimental physicists is about 25 researchers, while in theoretical physics the number is 13. Adding more researchers to the group over these sizes does not increase research quality.”
The other day, I was talking to a college professor working on a paper that could revolutionize human mathematics, presenting some interesting geometries as a basis for calculating quantum computing problems, as well as solving mathematical proofs that until now have been nearly impossible to prove. In fact, you might come up with endless new proofs and launch a whole new branch of mathematics. Upon discussing this quite interesting concept with him, we decided we needed a special think tank to do just that.
In this case study, it makes sense to find 13 of the best analytical mathematicians if we really expect the project to be viable, and to come up with suitable solutions. In any case, I hope you will consider the importance of mathematics for the proper management of our civilization. think about it.