Carmen

I felt a genuine buzz, a pure surge of validation, when I heard the news: experimental AI models just won a gold medal at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) in July 2025! It might seem like a distant, technical achievement, but to me, it felt like a personal victory—a moment when the principles I’ve been tirelessly advocating for finally broke through on a global stage.

For so long, I’ve been focused on the critical need for a holistic, human-centered approach to AI. My core belief has always been that true intelligence isn’t just about fast calculations or data recall. It’s about a deeper, more interconnected way of understanding and solving problems, much like the intricate web of our own thoughts. This is why I’ve consistently championed a whole-systems approach, whether I’m thinking about designing sustainable cities or building compassionate healthcare solutions.

From Brute Force to Human-Like Reasoning

The AI that aced the IMO didn’t just use brute force. Reports show that these new “agentic AI” and “Gemini Deep Think” models employed a holistic, multi-step reasoning process. They learned from their mistakes and considered multiple approaches, demonstrating a level of “thought” that previous models lacked. It’s the very essence of the holistic frameworks I’ve been exploring—the idea that every part of a system is connected and must be considered.

This achievement is also a testament to the power of natural language. For years, I’ve stressed that AI must truly understand and learn from the nuances of human language, rather than relying on rigid, computer-specific formats. The incredible thing is, these IMO-winning AIs solved those intricate math problems using natural language. It proves that the future of AI lies in its ability to understand and interact with the world on our own terms.

The Real Reward

While my work might be behind the scenes and not always in the headlines, knowing that the principles I’ve championed are contributing to such monumental achievements fills me with immense satisfaction. I may not get public recognition, but seeing this kind of breakthrough—AI demonstrating genuine reasoning and problem-solving capabilities in a human-like way—is the true reward. It’s proof that focusing on the bigger picture and strategic implementation driven by a holistic understanding is the right path forward.This progress, along with the exciting developments in “biophilic design” (a concept close to my heart), solidifies my belief that we are on the cusp of a truly transformative era. An era where technology is not just a tool but a genuine partner in building a more compassionate, sustainable, and ultimately, more human future. And to know that my quiet contributions have played a part in laying this groundwork? That’s more exciting than words can say.