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Thursday, 22 April 2004

We all have different ways of viewing history, but could the past also entertain a mathematical perspective?

This topic heralds the start of a free public lecture series at the University of Adelaide TODAY (Thursday, April 22) at 1.10pm.

The Inaugural Lecture series sees free lectures given by recently-appointed professors to the University of Adelaide, and is a great way to find out what is happening in the diverse range of research being conducted across the many disciplines at the university.

The first lecture will be given by Professor Charles Pearce from the Discipline of Applied Mathematics within the School of Mathematical Sciences, entitled "New Zealand Maori Tradition & Prehistory: A Mathematical Perspective".

Professor Pearce will explore how he is using mathematical methods to confirm the authenticity of Maori genealogies known as whakapapa, which enhances their value as a possible means of providing a reliable chronology for Maori traditional history.

Other lecture topics during the Inaugural Lecture series include premature births, extreme astronomy, and making teeth last a lifetime.

Lectures will occur each Thursday from April 22 until June 10 at 1.10pm in the Council Room, Wills Building, North Terrace. Entry is free, and both media and the public are welcome.

For more information, visit http://www.library.adelaide.edu.au/ual/inaugurals/