A maths proof that is only true in Japan

a year ago

Shinichi Mochizuki's 2012 publication of inter-universal Teichmüller (IUT) theory aimed to solve the abc conjecture, a significant problem in number theory.
The abc conjecture relates to the product of distinct prime factors of integers in the equation a + b = c, suggesting the product is usually larger than c.
Mochizuki's proof was initially met with skepticism due to its complexity and alien approach, with few mathematicians understanding it without extensive study under him.
In 2018, mathematicians Peter Scholze and Jakob Stix identified a critical flaw in Mochizuki's proof, specifically in Conjecture 3.12, which Mochizuki and his supporters disputed.
Despite the controversy, Mochizuki's papers were published in a peer-reviewed journal in 2021, though concerns about conflicts of interest were raised.
Mochizuki's supporters established the Inter-Universal Geometry Center and offered a $1 million prize to disprove IUT, while also awarding prizes for progress in studying the theory.
Kirti Joshi has since claimed to resolve the controversy by fixing the error in Conjecture 3.12, but his work has been met with hostility from Mochizuki and skepticism from Scholze.
The possibility of using formal proof checkers to verify Mochizuki's work exists, but the process is complex and not yet feasible, leaving the proof's validity largely confined to Japan.

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