Nature is not random. It is remarkably, almost impossibly, precise. In The Hidden Code: Mathematics in Nature, I will explore the surprising ways that mathematics encodes the world around us, from the spirals of sunflower seeds to the fractals of snowflakes. This talk delves into the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio – how they influence the shape of petals, shells, and even the growth of trees. But the talk also leaves the audience with a philosophical question: is math something we invented, or something we discovered? As a student at Seoul International School, I have long been fascinated by the nature of mathematics. As well as mathematics in nature. Ever since I was young, I have wondered: is math something we invented to make sense of the world, or is it something that is inherently woven into nature? From the number of sunflower petals that match a particular sequence to the shape of snowflakes that form a perfect symmetry, nature seemed to be oddly related to math. I'm amazed by how the abstract ideas of math manifest so precisely in the physical world. In my talk, I hope to explore this connection further, and leave you wondering whether math is just a tool we use, or a hidden code embedded into the universe itself. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 11:13The crisis facing American mothers and what we can do about it | Kayla Elderkin | TEDxPacific AvenueNewborns need their mothers — but in America, most women are forced back to work just weeks after giving birth. With no federally mandated paid leave, rising childcare costs, and mounting mental health crises, the system is failing moms and children alike. Kayla Elderkin delivers a raw, personal account of how she escaped the impossible trap so many mothers face — and challenges us to question the cultural norms that call this "normal." Kayla Elderkin is a single mother who refused to choose between raising her children and providing for them. While on maternity leave, she started building a business from scratch—determined to create a life that allowed her to be both present and financially secure. Today, she’s grown a community of over 600,000 across her platforms and is on a mission to help other women do the same: stay home with their babies and still provide boldly. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 11:12Why do we drift from our true path? | Gottfried Prinz | TEDxKlagenfurtIn this powerful talk, Gottfried Prinz reveals three escalating signals life sends when we drift from our true path — signposts, silence phases, and crisis. Through personal story and with sharp insight, he invites us to reconnect with ourselves and rediscover purpose, before life has to shout!Gottfried Prinz is a serial entrepreneur, transformation coach, and helps people and businesses reinvent themselves. Since 2007, he has led over 80 successful corporate restructurings, built a thriving superfoods brand with Dattelbär, and coached more than 800 executives and entrepreneurs toward purposeful change. Gottfried blends sharp business acumen with deep human insight. He’s also an author, speaker, self-healer, farmer, and actor and above all, a proud father of three. His mission is to leave a meaningful mark on the world through courage, clarity, and gratitude. Whether in the boardroom or on the farm, Gottfried lives what he teaches: transformation is not just possible—it’s a practice. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
