Killer problems

DOI10.4169/AMER.MATH.MONTHLY.119.10.815MaRDI QIDQ4908571zbMATH OpenOpenAlexFDO

Authors Tanya Khovanova, Alexey Andreyevich Radul

Publication date 6 March 2013

Published in The American Mathematical Monthly (Search for Journal in Brave)

Full work available at URL https://arxiv.org/abs/1110.1556

Mathematics Subject Classification ID

History of mathematics in the 20th century (01A60) Problem books, competitions, examinations (aspects of mathematics education) (97U40) History in mathematics education (97A30) Recreational mathematics (00A08) Student assessment, achievement control, and rating (aspects of mathematics education) (97D60)

Abstract: This is a special collection of problems that were given to select applicants during oral entrance exams to the math department of Moscow State University. These problems were designed to prevent Jews and other undesirables from getting a passing grade. Among problems that were used by the department to blackball unwanted candidate students, these problems are distinguished by having a simple solution that is difficult to find. Using problems with a simple solution protected the administration from extra complaints and appeals. This collection therefore has mathematical as well as historical value.

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