u/A1235GodelNewton

▲ 73 r/math

What are some non trivial results that can be proved using representation theory that are interesting without a lot of technical representation theory knowledge? Let me give some examples to give you an idea of the kind of results I am looking for. For instance in algebraic topology quick consequences of the properties of the fundamental group are the fundamental theorem of algebra and brouwers fixed point theorem in 2d. Later on you can prove interesting results like the only finite dimensional commutative division algebras over Reals with identity are R and C, dimensional invariance and jordan curve theorem. You can also prove not so classical but still interesting results like S^n is a H space for n=0,1,3,7 this can be appreciated with little knowledge in homotopy theory. Or for instance complex analysis has the beautiful proof of the fundamental theorem of algebra or the analyticity of holomorphic functions.

I understand that it's possible that there aren't many such classical applications of representation theory as Gian Carlo Rota wrote

> 'What can you prove with exterior algebra that you cannot prove without it?' Whenever you hear this question raised about some new piece of mathematics, be assured that you are likely to be in the presence of something important. In my time, I have heard it repeated for random variables, Laurent Schwartz’ theory of distributions, ideles and Grothendieck’s schemes, to mention only a few. A proper retort might be: 'You are right. There is nothing in yesterday’s mathematics that could not also be proved without it. Exterior algebra is not meant to prove old facts, it is meant to disclose a new world. Disclosing new worlds is as worthwhile a mathematical enterprise as proving old conjectures.'

-- "Indiscrete Thoughts"

I am making this post to get some motivation to read representation theory.

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u/A1235GodelNewton — 11 days ago
▲ 177 r/math

I am a high schooler who self studies math for the fun of it . I find it very difficult in real life to find a person who relates to me or is equally passionate about maths. I do talk to people online but it's not the same as real world interaction. My parents, friends most teachers don't get the point of the maths which I do, so even if I try to talk to them they won't be interested.Most of the people around me see maths as something which is necessary to score well in exams and don't try to see beyond it. I try to approach people in academia for mentorships but they do a lot of gatekeeping which is completely understandable as I am a high schooler. Sometimes it feels really lonely to be passionate about something that almost no one in real life you know cares about. This is one of the primary reasons because of which I want to go to a uni with a good maths department so that I can find like minded people. This may end up worse in the future if I end up in academia in some hyper specialization which even fewer people understand .

Have you guys interested in maths felt similar? Or is it just me being too anxious. What can be some ways to deal with this loneliness in maths (other than the suggestion of being interested in things other than maths which I do follow already) ?

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u/A1235GodelNewton — 14 days ago