Random processes are all around us, from the weather to the stock market. While predicting these outcomes exactly is impossible due to their complexity, probability theory helps us understand them in terms of likelihood. French mathematician Michel Talagrand won the prestigious Abel Prize for his profound understanding of random processes, challenging the notion that his area of mathematics was inferior. Talagrand, who overcame sight-threatening eye issues as a child, excelled in mathematics, publishing extensively on probability. His work, including generic chaining and concentration of measure, has applications in various fields, such as resource allocation and spin glasses. Talagrand’s insights have revolutionized how we perceive and analyze random events.
https://www.quantamagazine.org/michel-talagrand-wins-abel-prize-for-work-wrangling-randomness-20240320/