Jordan Ellenberg

Jordan Ellenberg is a highly accomplished and prolific author who has been acclaimed for his engaging and insightful approach to topics relating to mathematics. He is the John D. MacArthur and Vilas Research Professor in the mathematics department at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. A mathematician, writer, and podcast host, Ellenberg’s work has reached a broad audience with his accessible distillation of highly complex mathematical issues.

Ellenberg’s subject matter is varied, covering a multitude of topics from algebra and number theory to the use of mathematical models in decision-making. A strong proponent of making mathematics understandable, he is known for making complex concepts easily relatable with his engaging writing style and deep intellect.

Ellenberg’s curiosities extend beyond mathematics, delving into the history of ideas to explore broader relevance of the subject. He has published a number of books looking at the broader applications of mathematics, and is currently writing Thank You For Arguing, an Introduction to Argumentation.

His writing frequently appears in national publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Slate, and the New Yorker. Ellenberg is a founder and the host of the What’s Happening in the Mathematical Sciences podcast which looks at the latest developments in mathematics and its broader implications.

Ellenberg’s talents have been recognized by many prestigious awards over the years. He has won the Reuben Hersh Prize from the Mathematical Association of America, the Lemelman Prize from the Association for Women in Mathematics, and the Haimo Award from the Mathematical Association of America.

His wide-ranging achievements in mathematics notwithstanding, Ellenberg is best known for his first book, How Not to Be Wrong: The Power of Mathematical Thinking. The book is an exploration of the pervasive role of mathematics in contemporary life, looking at the ways we use it, from investments to elections. The book proved an instant success, becoming a New York Times bestseller and cementing Ellenberg’s reputation as a thought leader in the field of mathematics.

In another of his works, Ellenberg examines the potential of mathematics as a form of communication. The book, titled What Statisticians Do and Why, looks at how numbers can be used to effectively convey complex ideas. Ellenberg’s accessible writing encourages readers to consider the broader implications of statistics and its connection to decisions we make in everyday life.

Jordan Ellenberg’s multifaceted approach to mathematics has continually found new audiences and has helped to elevate the broad, yet often undervalued, importance of mathematics. His books, articles, and podcast, frequently tackle challenging concepts and offer illuminating insights, ensuring that he continues to be one of the most celebrated writers in mathematics.