Bob Dylan may, or may not, be somewhat ambivalent, but awarding him the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature has certainly produced much media comment. The award is for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition. There is no Nobel Prize in Mathematics. Alfred Nobel’s will is very clear regarding the areas to be honoured. However mathematics appears to me to be a fundamental element in advancing physics, for example using topology, and perhaps in other areas including chemistry and economics. Like Mr Dylan, it allows for the creation of new expressions and concepts, but this time within traditional science. Is it time for the Nobel Committee to review the award categories?
Just an idea blowing in the wind but perhaps these times need to be a changing?
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