ETHICS AND MATHEMATICS: FOR STUDENTS BY STUDENTS

This volume explores the ethical dimensions of mathematics as experienced and articulated by doctoral students in mathematics and the sciences. As society becomes increasingly reliant on mathematical models, algorithms, and data, the ethical implications of how mathematics is used — and misused — are gaining urgency. Yet most scientists and mathematicians receive little formal training in ethical reflection.

Responding to this gap, this collection presents a series of thoughtful and accessible essays written by students taking a mandatory course on the theory of science and ethics. The contributions span topics such as scientific responsibility, the ethics of mathematical modeling, decolonization of research, automation, and the moral obligations of mathematicians. Framed by an expert introduction and concluding analysis, the essays provide a rare and engaging entry point into a field where literature for students is still scarce.

Dr Gunilla Öberg, Professor at the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability (IRES) at University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, is inspired by her experience as a leader of complex interdisciplinary sustainability projects, drawing on her deep knowledge in chlorine biogeochemistry. In 2012, she closed her chlorine lab to focus on the production of science for policy in complex areas of contemporary concern. Dr Öberg's present research includes, the perception of expertise, the context dependence of knowledge, the limits of science, and how to teach scientists about science for policy. During her 30+ years career, she has developed and taught student-centered courses designed to enhance students critical thinking skills. Dr Öberg is the author of the widely used Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies — a Primer (2011, Wiley & Blackwell). During 2020–2023, she was appointed as Professor II at the Center for the Studies of the Sciences and the Humanities at the University of Bergen (UiB), Norway. Her service to UiB included revising and teaching MNF990, Theory of science and ethics, which is mandatory for all PhD students in the Faculty of Science and Technology (before 2024: Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences).

Ingrid Kristine Jacobsen is a PhD candidate at the Department of Mathematics at the Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Bergen, Norway. She earned her master's degree in applied and computational mathematics after graduating from the integrated teacher's program in science and mathematics, also at the University of Bergen. During her master's, she developed an interest in the modelling of coupled processes such as the interactions between fluid flow and temperature in porous media, as well as the relationship between fluid flow and rock deformation. This led her to pursue a PhD in the field, and she is currently part of the project Mathematical and Numerical Modelling of Process-Structure Interaction in Fractured Geothermal Systems (MaPSI). Her work in the project is focused on mathematical modelling and simulation of rock deformation in the subsurface.

Anita Stene Løtvedt is a PhD candidate at the Department of Biological Sciences at the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Bergen in Norway, working with the Theoretical Ecology Group (TEG), which gives her the opportunity to build on her knowledge of mathematical modelling and numerical analysis and gain valuable perspective on the use of models in natural sciences. She has a master's degree in applied and computational mathematics from the Department of Mathematics, also at the University of Bergen. Presently, Anita is a part of the interdisciplinary project How can future fisheries contribute to a more sustainable future? making use of her mathematical background in the further development of an idealized model of the marine microbial food web and in the analysis of its applications in her PhD project.

Francesco Saltalamacchia is a PhD candidate in the Department of Biological Sciences at the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Bergen, in Norway. After receiving a master's degree in marine ecology at Sapienza University of Rome (Italy), Francesco acquired a background in fishery science by working for the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. His PhD project focuses on assessing the impact of climate-induced water deoxygenation on the life histories and physiological traits of mesopelagic fish, using Norwegian fjords as model environments. Francesco's primary interest is to generate knowledge that contributes to the conservation and sustainable management of fish populations.