Alexander Grothendieck: a forgotten genius– or a lonely madman?

Mathematical genius Alexander Grothendieck, once a revolutionary in postwar mathematics paralleling Einstein's impact on physics, ended his days in seclusion. His enigmatic work may hold potential for transforming AI technology, with tech giant Huawei exploring his theorems for advances in AI, despite his own disapproval of science's corporate alliance.

• Grothendieck revolutionized postwar mathematics and contributed concepts like topos theory.
• He retreated from public life after 1970, living mostly in isolation.
• His extensive and perplexing late work focuses on topics ranging from mathematics to philosophy.
• Huawei is investigating his theories for potential applications in artificial intelligence.
• Grothendieck's work raises ethical questions on the use of science for corporate gains.