Visionary Scientists

Welcome to the third edition of the John von Neumann Series of Pure and Applied Sciences!

We are excited to announce that the third edition of the Neumann Series will take place in the fall of 2024. The conference, titled Visionaries of the Future: Celebrating Mathematics, Science, and the Art of Strategic Play, will be held on October 11 at Liberty Science Center. This event celebrates the profound contributions of visionary scientists whose groundbreaking ideas have shaped the fields of mathematics, artificial intelligence, game theory, and beyond. Each edition of the Neumann Series focuses on a unique theme, and for this year’s event, we aim to accomplish several interconnected goals.

John von Neumann’s Legacy with the Art of Play

This year’s conference highlights von Neumann’s lasting influence in mathematics and game theory, emphasizing the connection between science and play. We believe that strategic games are powerful tools for engaging the younger generation in scientific discovery.

The Role of Play in Science Education

Games and science are inherently linked. Creative games, many of which are rooted in mathematics, play a crucial role in educating children and introducing them to the wonders of science—an area in which von Neumann was undoubtedly a pioneer.

Commemorating 30 Years of John Charles Harsanyi’s Nobel Prize

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Hungarian-born economist John Charles Harsanyi’s Nobel Prize, awarded alongside John F. Nash and Reinhard Selten for their groundbreaking work in game theory. John von Neumann, together with Oscar Morgenstern, founded modern game theory, a field popularized in culture by the film A Beautiful Mind about Nash. Interestingly, Harsanyi also appears in the film!

Celebrating Hungarian Nobel Laureates

The year 1994 was remarkable for Hungarian American scientists, as George Andrew Olah received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, the same year Harsanyi won the Nobel for Economics. It’s worth noting that John von Neumann, a key figure in both fields, earned his first degree in chemical engineering before his doctorate in mathematics.

Chess as a Tool for Logical and Mathematical Thinking

Chess, one of the most powerful tools for developing logical thinking and mathematical skills, will be a central focus of this year's event. We are honored to host a panel discussion featuring Judit Polgar, widely regarded as the greatest female chess player in history. Polgar broke countless barriers throughout her career, achieving the title of Grandmaster at the age of 15—at the time, the youngest ever to do so. She has consistently ranked among the world’s top players, defeating 11 world champions, including Garry Kasparov and Magnus Carlsen, and has been a strong advocate for the educational benefits of chess.

Joining her in the discussion will be Paul Hoffman, a renowned author, science writer, and the current president and CEO of Liberty Science Center. Hoffman’s works span a variety of intellectual topics, from mathematics to puzzles and strategy. He is the author of King’s Gambit: A Son, a Father, and the World’s Most Dangerous Game, an exploration of the psychological intensity and emotional complexity behind chess. He is also the author of the award-winning international bestseller The Man Who Loved Only Numbers: The Story of Paul Erdős and the Search for Mathematical Truth. As a leader at Liberty Science Center, Hoffman continues to inspire curiosity and a love for science, education, and strategic thinking. Together, they will explore how chess and strategic play can foster critical thinking and problem-solving in the next generation.

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Rubik’s Cube

This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Rubik’s Cube, the most iconic puzzle in history. The cube serves as a brilliant case study in combinatorial mathematics and problem-solving.

The Liberty Science Center provides the perfect venue for this celebration, aligning with its mission to inspire future scientists and engineers and to engage learners of all ages in the joy and promise of science and technology. Each year, more than 750,000 students, teachers, and parents visit Liberty Science Center, and thousands more participate in off-site and online programs.

During the event, in addition to the scientific conference, interactive games will be presented outside the conference hall. Visitors will have the chance to explore chess, the Rubik’s Cube, and other innovative games that blend education and entertainment. We believe this occasion will not only celebrate the contributions of visionary scientists but also inspire people of all ages to dive into the fascinating world of science and strategic play. Through this, we hope to contribute to the popularization of STEM education, showcasing both new and time-tested tools for learning and discovery.

Tamas Novak PhD - Science and Innovation Diplomat - Consulate General of Hungary

Monika Krausz - Executive Director - Tulipan Foundation