# Mathematics on The No Agenda Show Mathematics comes up in 17 chapters across 16 episodes of The No Agenda Show, from May 2009 to October 2023. - **Chapters:** 17 - **Episodes:** 16 - **Discussed:** May 2009 – October 2023 - **Related topics:** [Education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md), [Nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [Science](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/science.md), [Algorithms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/algorithms.md), [Analog Clocks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/analog-clocks.md), [Boris Johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boris-johnson.md), [Canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [Cbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbc.md), [Cbs News](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbs-news.md), [Common Core](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/common-core.md) ## Chapters 1–17 of 17 ### Luddite History, Algorithm Etymology - **Episode:** [1595: Bin Police](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1595-bin-police.md) - **Published:** 2023-10-07 - **Time:** 1:16:39–1:19:28 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1595-bin-police/chapter/luddite-history-algorithm-etymology.md A discussion on the history of the Luddite movement traces the term back to 19th-century textile workers who destroyed automated looms to protect their livelihoods. The segment also explores the etymology of "algorithm," noting its origin from a Persian mathematician, while observing that the Greek word "algos" translates to pain and suffering. Keywords: luddites, [algorithms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/algorithms.md), [etymology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/etymology.md), textile industry, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md) ### Global Death Rate, Harvard Infection Projections - **Episode:** [1439: COVID Retrospective](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1439-covid-retrospective.md) - **Published:** 2022-04-03 - **Time:** 59:26–1:01:58 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1439-covid-retrospective/chapter/global-death-rate-harvard-infection-projections.md The WHO reported a global death rate of 3.4% for COVID-19, noting it was deadlier than the seasonal flu. A Harvard expert provided a projection that 40% to 70% of the world's adult population could eventually be infected. The expert noted that many cases might be asymptomatic, which would lower the overall fatality rate among the total infected population. Keywords: [world health organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-health-organization.md), [death rate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/death-rate.md), [harvard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harvard.md), [infection](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infection.md), mathematical models ### 2007 CBC Report, Flu Death Modeling - **Episode:** [1417: Get Boris!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1417-get-boris.md) - **Published:** 2022-01-16 - **Time:** 1:35:56–1:39:12 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1417-get-boris/chapter/2007-cbc-report-flu-death-modeling.md A 2007 investigative report by CBC's Kelly Crowe revealed that official flu death statistics in Canada are based on mathematical models rather than actual body counts. The report found that deaths from heart and lung disease are often categorized as "possible flu deaths" to encourage vaccine uptake. The hosts use this to illustrate long-standing issues with the veracity of public health data. Keywords: [cbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbc.md), kelly crowe, [flu deaths](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flu-deaths.md), mathematical modeling, [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md) ### Dr. Douglas Frank, Election Data Analysis - **Episode:** [1360: Magnetofection](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1360-magnetofection.md) - **Published:** 2021-07-01 - **Time:** 1:54:31–1:58:49 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1360-magnetofection/chapter/dr-douglas-frank-election-data-analysis.md Dr. Douglas Frank, a mathematician, discusses his findings regarding alleged irregularities in the 2020 election voter rolls. He describes his disillusionment with the Pennsylvania State Legislature, claiming they acknowledged his evidence but refused to take corrective action. Keywords: douglas frank, [election 2020](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-2020.md), [pennsylvania](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pennsylvania.md), [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), [voter rolls](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voter-rolls.md) ### Criticism of the Imperial College COVID-19 Model - **Episode:** [1237: Imbleachment](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1237-imbleachment.md) - **Published:** 2020-04-30 - **Time:** 2:37:24–2:40:59 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1237-imbleachment/chapter/criticism-of-the-imperial-college-covid-19-model.md Dr. Giesecke criticizes the Imperial College report that led to Boris Johnson's "180-degree turn" and the UK lockdown. He points out that the paper was never peer-reviewed and relied on flawed assumptions that have since been heavily criticized. The hosts conclude that the world has been misled by "bullshit" mathematical models rather than actual science. Keywords: [imperial college](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imperial-college.md), [neil ferguson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neil-ferguson.md), [boris johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boris-johnson.md), [peer review](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peer-review.md), mathematical models ### Harvard Expert Predicts Massive Global COVID-19 Infection Rates - **Episode:** [1222: Booby-Trap](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1222-booby-trap.md) - **Published:** 2020-03-08 - **Time:** 18:14–22:50 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1222-booby-trap/chapter/harvard-expert-predicts-massive-global-covid-19-infection-rates.md Dr. Marc Lipsitch of Harvard University provided a startling projection to CBS News, estimating that 40% to 70% of the world's adult population could be infected by the coronavirus. The hosts perform calculations based on these figures, suggesting such a scenario would result in millions of deaths in the United States. They express skepticism regarding the accuracy of these mathematical models compared to seasonal flu data. Keywords: [harvard university](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harvard-university.md), [cbs news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbs-news.md), jim axelrod, mathematical modeling, [mortality rates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mortality-rates.md), [pandemic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pandemic.md) ### Online Voting and Digital Rabbit Holes - **Episode:** [1139: Mooch and Stoll](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1139-mooch-and-stoll.md) - **Published:** 2019-05-23 - **Time:** 1:36:28–1:39:26 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1139-mooch-and-stoll/chapter/online-voting-and-digital-rabbit-holes.md Cliff Stoll criticizes the idea of internet voting, arguing that it lacks the temporal seriousness and identity security of physical voting booths. He describes his own digital habits, which involve answering emails for his glass Klein bottle business but otherwise avoiding screens. Stoll mentions that he tries to limit his "screen time" to a few hours around midday to avoid falling down digital rabbit holes. Keywords: online voting, [surveymonkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveymonkey.md), [identity theft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/identity-theft.md), klein bottles, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), digital habits ### Multiverse Theory and Parallel Universes in Physics - **Episode:** [898: Chain of Lies](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/898-chain-of-lies.md) - **Published:** 2017-01-26 - **Time:** 28:27–32:50 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/898-chain-of-lies/chapter/multiverse-theory-and-parallel-universes-in-physics.md Physicist Brian Greene discusses the scientific basis for the multiverse theory on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross. Greene explains that mathematical models in quantum mechanics and cosmology suggest our universe may be just one of many in a grander multiverse. The hosts apply this concept to the current political climate, suggesting that individuals exist in different "wavelengths" or realities based on their information consumption and personal programming. Keywords: brian greene, [terry gross](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terry-gross.md), multiverse, [quantum mechanics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/quantum-mechanics.md), [physics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/physics.md), [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md) ### Mathematical Repetition in Infinite Universes - **Episode:** [898: Chain of Lies](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/898-chain-of-lies.md) - **Published:** 2017-01-26 - **Time:** 36:44–39:56 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/898-chain-of-lies/chapter/mathematical-repetition-in-infinite-universes.md Physicist Brian Greene explains that in an infinite universe with a finite number of ways matter can arrange itself, patterns must eventually repeat. This mathematical certainty implies that versions of ourselves are conducting the same activities in other parts of the cosmos. The hosts compare this to the 1990s sci-fi show Sliders and argue that this mathematical model is more robust than the consensus-based models used in climate science. Keywords: brian greene, infinite universe, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), sliders, [science](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/science.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md) ### Analog Clock Literacy and Pattern Recognition - **Episode:** [810: Karmonious](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/810-karmonious.md) - **Published:** 2016-03-24 - **Time:** 2:05:48–2:08:46 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/810-karmonious/chapter/analog-clock-literacy-and-pattern-recognition.md A study in King County finds that only one-third of children can tell time on an analog clock. While Dvorak argues the analog clock is an anachronism, Curry contends that learning to read one is a vital exercise for pattern recognition and understanding the physical world. They debate whether this shift represents a failure of education or a natural evolution of technology. Keywords: [analog clocks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/analog-clocks.md), [king county](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/king-county.md), [digital age](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/digital-age.md), pattern recognition, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md) ### Flat Earth Theory, Curvature Mathematics Debate - **Episode:** [783: Bernie and the Breach](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/783-bernie-and-the-breach.md) - **Published:** 2015-12-20 - **Time:** 2:23:01–2:30:25 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/783-bernie-and-the-breach/chapter/flat-earth-theory-curvature-mathematics-debate.md Adam Curry brings up the growing online interest in Flat Earth theory, specifically questioning the mathematical calculations of the Earth's curvature and why lighthouses are visible from distances they theoretically shouldn't be. John Dvorak dismisses the topic as nonsense, while Adam questions why NASA only provides "composite" images of Earth rather than single photographs. Keywords: [flat earth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flat-earth.md), [neil degrasse tyson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neil-degrasse-tyson.md), curvature, [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), lighthouses, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md) ### Pi Day Donations, Super Pi Day 2015 - **Episode:** [703: Lowjistiks](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/703-lowjistiks.md) - **Published:** 2015-03-12 - **Time:** 1:35:03–1:41:26 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/703-lowjistiks/chapter/pi-day-donations-super-pi-day-2015.md Multiple producers send in "Pi donations" ($314.15) in anticipation of "Super Pi Day" on Saturday, March 14, 2015. The hosts acknowledge the support and discuss the upcoming special show. Donors express how the podcast has helped alleviate anxieties caused by mainstream media fear propaganda. Keywords: [pi day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pi-day.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), march 14, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) ### Common Core Mathematics, Compensation Method Critique - **Episode:** [570: Festival of Corruption](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/570-festival-of-corruption.md) - **Published:** 2013-12-01 - **Time:** 1:26:01–1:34:17 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/570-festival-of-corruption/chapter/common-core-mathematics-compensation-method-critique.md Adam Curry critiques "compensation mathematics," a Common Core teaching method that encourages students to use rounding and subtraction rather than memorizing multiplication tables. The hosts argue this system dumbs down education and compare it to the "New Math" movement of the 1960s. Keywords: [common core](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/common-core.md), compensation mathematics, [education reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education-reform.md), multiplication tables, new math, john taylor gatto ### Prime Numbers, Encryption, Mathematics in Schools - **Episode:** [488: Sponsor Influence](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/488-sponsor-influence.md) - **Published:** 2013-02-17 - **Time:** 1:56:23–1:59:46 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/488-sponsor-influence/chapter/prime-numbers-encryption-mathematics-in-schools.md A donation involving a prime number leads to a discussion on the importance of prime numbers in modern encryption. The hosts debate the utility of finding new prime numbers and suggest that children should be taught how to compile a Linux kernel in school. They contrast this with the current trend of moving students toward simplified Chromebooks. Keywords: [prime numbers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prime-numbers.md), [encryption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/encryption.md), [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md), linux kernel ### Pi vs Tau Debate, Grid Frequency Experiment - **Episode:** [317: Blood and Treasure](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/317-blood-and-treasure.md) - **Published:** 2011-06-30 - **Time:** 2:05:49–2:07:40 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/317-blood-and-treasure/chapter/pi-vs-tau-debate-grid-frequency-experiment.md Mathematicians are campaigning to replace the constant Pi with Tau (6.28), arguing it is a more natural fit for circle properties. Meanwhile, the hosts discuss a proposal to slow down the frequency of the U.S. power grid as a cost-cutting measure. Keywords: [pi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pi.md), tau, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md), [power grid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/power-grid.md), [frequency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/frequency.md) ### NASA Outreach to Muslim World, Moonbase Alpha Game - **Episode:** [215: Drunk in America](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/215-drunk-in-america.md) - **Published:** 2010-07-08 - **Time:** 1:12:37–1:17:07 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/215-drunk-in-america/chapter/nasa-outreach-to-muslim-world-moonbase-alpha-game.md NASA Administrator Charles Bolden stated that one of his primary objectives under the Obama administration is to conduct outreach to the Muslim world to acknowledge their historical contributions to science and mathematics. While Fox News criticized the move, the segment notes that Bolden also emphasized global cooperation with Russia and China. Additionally, NASA's release of the "Moonbase Alpha" game is mentioned as a potential precursor to future lunar colonization. Keywords: [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obama.md), [middle east](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/middle-east.md), moonbase alpha, [science](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/science.md), [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md) ### Mandelbrot Set and 1976 Swine Flu Anniversary - **Episode:** [95: We're All Terrorists Now](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/95-we-re-all-terrorists-now.md) - **Published:** 2009-05-07 - **Time:** 28:52–29:50 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/95-we-re-all-terrorists-now/chapter/mandelbrot-set-and-1976-swine-flu-anniversary.md A donor note clarifies the significance of the year 1976, noting it as the year of the original swine flu outbreak and the year Benoit Mandelbrot began his work on the Mandelbrot set of fractals. The hosts briefly discuss the nature of fractals and the historical context of the 1976 health crisis. Keywords: benoit mandelbrot, [fractals](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fractals.md), 1976 swine flu, david cost, [mathematics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mathematics.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`. - [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt) - [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md) - [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md) - [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md) - [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)