I want to be a mathematician (excerpts) (Q1078161)

The author's ''I want to be a mathematician'' (1985; Zbl 0569.01020) describes the life of a professional mathematician, alongwith his personal opinions on the contemporary history of mathematics. Starting with the idea that ''ontogeny must recapitulate phylogeny every time'', one of the chaptes of the book - entitled ''Teaching'' - reviews the ''tricks of the trade'' regarding professing of a mathematician's profession (anecdotes included). Another interesting aspect regarding university life refers to the relation between Ph. D. candidates and the professors they choose as their supervisors; the author discusses it as sincere as possible, giving common sense advice, so that both the advisor and the candidate should attain his end. The problem of the academic democracy in the selection of chairmen is also discussed, the leading idea being that a method cannot be considered as reactionary only because it worked in the past and, consequently, it could work in future. Scientific research activity is introduced and explained to readers by means of two terms: excellence and dedication: ''Excellence is for the few but dedication is something everybody can have - should have - and without it life is not worth living''. On talking of ''professionals'', the author stresses the idea of constant, deep, loving contact with the science of mathematics, with mathematicians, with the problems confronting the mathematics community. In the final chapter, the author summarizes the qualities that one must necessarily possess for succeeding in this fascinating profession: inborn tallent, self-assumed striving for perfection, deep love of mathematics, ceaseless work and never giving up.