“Mathematics in the age of AI” examines how the mathematical community might respond if artificial-intelligence tools become capable of research-level mathematical work. The essay treats the arrival of those capabilities as a hypothesis rather than debating whether or when they will emerge. The work shifts attention from AI capability to the goals and values of mathematical research. It uses mathematics’ problem-solving component as a case study for considering what researchers value beyond the production of solutions. The essay is based on a public lecture delivered at the 2026 International Congress of Mathematicians and was submitted to arXiv on August 17, 2026.

Secondhand book sales are experiencing a significant increase, with independent booksellers noting unusual bulk orders being shipped to distant warehouses. Stuart Manley from Barter Books reported a recent single order from a Canadian company that matched his typical weekly sales.

AI's environmental footprint is rapidly expanding, potentially straining the planet's natural resources. UN scientists warn that this growth threatens water, land, and climate stability for billions of people.

The offshoring industry in the Philippines is experiencing growth despite the rise of AI technologies. Workers like Trizza engage in tasks such as generating business for American firms, often working late-night hours.

Most technological revolutions have historically worsened work conditions for employees, leading to increased mundane tasks and longer office hours. Despite fears surrounding AI, there is a push for its adoption, with the belief that it may not follow the same detrimental pattern as previous technologies.

Data centers account for approximately 1.5% of global electricity consumption, with demand concentrated in specific regions. The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence raises concerns about its increasing energy demand and potential environmental impacts.

AI mania is leading to irrational decision-making within companies, creating challenges in rational discussions about AI's impact. Concerns are raised about the long-term effects of this phenomenon on business operations and relationships.

Two visions for the future of AI are emerging: one where a small group controls AI as a deity, and another where humans are at the center with AI serving as an amplifier. Dario Amodei warns that AI could potentially eliminate half of entry-level white-collar jobs.

A significant percentage of healthcare professionals, including 70% of nurses and 77% of physicians, express concern that AI may negatively impact their skills. This growing apprehension is shared among medical specialists and computer scientists.

Large Language Models (LLMs) are impacting the job market for software engineers, causing concerns about career stability. A software engineer with ten years of experience, primarily in backend development, expresses uncertainty about the future of their profession due to the rise of LLMs.