Join us for the annual OPTIMA Debate, where leading optimisation researchers from fields such as mathematics, computer science, engineering, and economics explore whether hyper-efficiency is always the best solution.
Panellists will discuss topics like overfitting life, the ethics of optimisation, and whether chaos and spontaneity still have a place in an increasingly optimised world. If life were 100% efficient, would we lose those unpredictable yet defining moments like a spontaneous 2am snack run?
This event offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from experts, connect with professionals, researchers, and curious minds, and explore the fascinating world of optimisation and its relevance to everyday life, with a dose of humour added in!
Simon Pampena - Moderator
Simon Pampena is a world-renowned science and mathematical communicator with over 15 years experience performing for audiences in the US, UK, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Brazil, and all across Australia. He was appointed the Australian Numeracy Ambassador from 2009 to 2017 and is a presenter on Discovery Channel's Outrageous Acts of Science and groundbreaking YouTube channel, Numberphile. His pioneering blend of comedy and mathematics has been wowing crowds around the world with numerous seasons at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Adelaide Fringe, and the Edinburgh International Science Festival. Combining comedy, storytelling, and performance with a deep love for mathematics, Simon has forged a unique career bringing an important subject area to life for a wide audience.
Team Affirmative (We shouldn’t be optimising everything) :
Team Negative (We should optimise it all!):
