I heard this story on the radio this morning, and find it both astoundingly amazing and tragically sad.
A Russian said to be the world’s cleverest man has turned down a $1 million prize for solving one of mathematics’ toughest puzzles.
Dr Grigory Perelman, 44, who lives as a recluse in a cockroach-infested flat in St Petersburg, said through the closed door: “I have all I want.”
The prize, the equivalent of £660,000, was given by the US Clay Mathematics Institute for solving the Poincare Conjecture, reports the Daily Mail.
Dr Perelman posted his solution on the internet but failed to turn up to receive his prestigious Fields Medal from the International Mathematical Union in Madrid four years ago.
At the time he stated: “I’m not interested in money or fame. I don’t want to be on display like an animal in a zoo.
“I’m not a hero of mathematics. I’m not even that successful, that is why I don’t want to have everybody looking at me.”
Neighbour Vera Petrovna said: “I was once in his flat and I was astounded. He only has a table, a stool and a bed with a dirty mattress which was left by previous owners – alcoholics who sold the flat to him.
“We are trying to get rid of cockroaches in our block, but they hide in his flat.”
The Poincare Conjecture was more than 100 years old when Perelman solved it – and could help determine the shape of the universe.
Source:Â Ananova
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this guy looks wierd…
Not everyone wants fame and fortune. Fame and fortune are not as advertised. Some people prefer to be left alone and do what they like. I think a Doctor could afford some roach spray though.
I completely agree Fred. Fame & fortune seem attractive to some people, but honestly I don’t think there’s much sense in that. You have to trade off so much of your privacy its hardy worth it.
But what I do feel sorry for is that the Doctor seemingly needs money, and even though its within his reach, its still not close enough. Sad to hear that someone so brilliant has to live so poor. Also sad now that he only has two choices, be poor and keep his privacy, or get the money and give up everything which he seems so very attached to.
indeed, a sad story about a scientist altruists