Many École polytechnique graduates began their careers using applied mathematics; others became physicists, economists or professional mathematicians.
In the words of the AX president: "From its very foundation by its founding fathers—all savants, as they were called at the time—the École polytechnique has been associated with mathematics. Its militarization under Bonaparte only strengthened this link, since Napoleon, himself good at maths, regarded mastery of the fundamental sciences as essential to the nation’s advancement, and not merely to his military ambitions. The development of digital technology, large-scale data processing and artificial intelligence has demonstrated that this vision remains relevant. […] In 2018, the reformers of the lycée system sought equal opportunity by removing mathematics, whereas the revolutionaries of 1794 had sought it precisely through mathematics."
The feature examines the characteristics and vulnerabilities of French mathematical excellence, the importance of mathematics to industry, and all manner of new scientific and technological applications. It also analyses the changes to the organization of research, which are already well under way. As for basic education, several articles explain that everything remains to be done to halt the decline of mathematics in France.
Feature: "Mathematics: the French school system must be saved".
La Jaune & La Rouge 782, Association des anciens élèves et diplômés de l’École polytechnique,
February 2023, 80 pages, €8.
Available online at www.lajauneetlarouge.com/magazine/782
