Harvard Mathematics and Biology Profess
During a conference entitled “Mathematics leads us to God?“On June 8, Nowak said that, among other things, mathematics can be seen as” an argument for the existence of God. “
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Quoting San AgustÃn, Nowak said mathematics is like “an intelligible object.”
“We judge the mathematics in the truth through a criterion that is within us. That is, of course, the doctrine of divine lighting. Saint Augustine says: ‘This is possible because God is the master of soul’.”
“Mathematics is not in the finish line,” said Nowak. He explained that mathematics is “eternal” and “timeless.” “If you accept this … you have taken a step towards God. Because you are no longer a materialist, you are no longer a naturalist in the sense that you are no longer an atheist.”
According to Nowak, mathematics provides meaning and understanding. “We walk through life and the world as meaning. You need smart objects, you need mathematics,” he said.
“It is mathematics that make sense … we experience mathematics as we experience love. Mathematics tell us who we are, who is the other. Mathematics tell us what we are made of. Mathematics allow us to see God,” he said.
Nowak’s exhibition was one of the most commented topics in Congress, especially given the recent interest in the fact that Pope Leo XIV obtained a title in Mathematics at the University of Villanova.
“Mathematics are beautiful. If you ask mathematicians which is the most beautiful thing they have seen in their life, it is some mathematical equation,” said Nowak.
“Why are mathematics beautiful?” He asked. And he replied: “Because God is beautiful.”
“Mathematics are the set of all the correct statements. Mathematics deal with the truth with a capital letter: the truth. We will never end mathematics … because it carries an eternity to know an infinite being, God,” he continued.
“I think mathematics helps us to remember that we are eternal objects, that we are not only in time and space,” Nowak reflected.
Since God transcends everything, he added, “God cannot be captured or described by mathematics.” Mathematics, he said, have more to do with the “thoughts of God.”
Translated and adapted by ACI Press. Originally published in CNA.
Tessa Gervasini
Tesa Gervasini is a intern of Catholic News Agency and member of College Fix. Recently he graduated from the Texas Christian University with a degree in strategic communication.