The relationship between the complexity classes P (Polynomial time) and NP (Nondeterministic Polynomial time) is an unsolved problem in theoretical computer science, and is considered by many theoretical computer scientists to be the most important problem in the field. The Clay Mathematics Institute, which is dedicated to increasing and disseminating mathematical knowledge, has included it in its list of Millennium Prize Problems; anyone who provides a satisfactory solution to the problem may be entitled to a USD $1,000,000 prize.

In August 6th, Vinay Deolalikar claimed to have proven P ≠ NP. The paper still needs specialist proof-reading.

Scott Aaronson, an MIT professor, wrote at his blog that he doesn’t plan to interrupt his vacation time in Israel and Greece, unless other experts who have studied the paper in detail find the solution satisfactory. In that case he’ll also personally supplement the million dollar prize by the amount of $200,000.

Read more about the P vs NP problem at Wikipedia.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Straight Statistics is a pressure group whose aim is to detect and expose the distortion and misuse of statistical information, and identify those responsible. It has been formed by a group of legislators, statisticians and journalists, chaired by the Labour peer Lord Lipsey.

Popularity: 1% [?]

A blog post is the least I could do for two child friends of mine, Constantine and Marios Magdalinos from Thassos, who formed a London based alternative rock band called Uncaused Creation. UC recently released their debut album which you can listen to on myspace. Anticipation is IMHO one of their most beautiful and touchy songs (song and lyrics below).

ANTICIPATION

I want to let you know
I’m feeling low
I’ve got to let you know
My patience started to break

Behind your easy words
You built a wall
Before you’ll ever think
You’ll find yourself in a cage

Alone you stand here and wait
For life will turn out your way but,

You pray inside for a change

I’ve got to let you know
I see you fall
Soon it will be too late
To take those weights off your head

Inside your little world
Your hear a voice
Someone is telling you
That you’ll be the king of your race

Alone you anticipate
For life will turn out your way but,
You pray inside for a change

Staying Alive
Is all you need

Staying Alive
Is all we need

Popularity: 1% [?]