As one of five Learned Societies for Mathematics in the UK, and one of the world’s oldest mathematical societies, you’ve might have heard of the London Mathematical Society (LMS), and maybe even attended a lecture by them. Have you ever wondered who they actually are, or a bit more about them?
The society was founded in 1865, by Augustus De Morgan, a prominent mathematician and logician. Their headquarters is located in London, which is where the name comes from. In 1965, they formally earned their royal charter, which formally established their role as a learned society.
As a society, they undergo multiple different types of activities and contributions to mathematics:
The LMS provides a wide range of grants to support mathematics, through research, conferences and collaboration between mathematicians. Not only does this have a national impact, some grants are even provided internationally, which encourages the further development of mathematics.
They also run lectures and events, including the annual Gresham College Lecture. These focus on encouraging mathematical discussion. These events are highly commended, and are a key activity of the society.
They also run many publications, including formal mathematical journals, such as ‘The Proceedings of the LMS’, ‘The Journal of the LMS’ and ‘The Bulletin of the LMS’, alongside others in collaboration with other societies. This provides an opportunity for mathematical discoveries to be published, and peer-reviewed, to the masses.
The LMS also recognises exceptional mathematical achievements using awards. The De Morgan Medal, Pólya Prize, and Whitehead prizes are awarded for mathematical achievements, and congratulate people that have contributed so heavily to our understanding of the field.
Finally, the society also runs educational outreach programs. These are aimed to inspire young mathematicians, and promote mathematics education in children across the country.
Even today, the London Mathematical Society creates new mathematical possibilities and interest in maths internationally.