👉 Infected math, also known as pathological or pathological mathematics, refers to the use of mathematical concepts, theories, or techniques in contexts where they are not logically or contextually appropriate, often leading to absurd or nonsensical conclusions. This can happen when mathematicians or thinkers apply rigorous, precise methods from one domain to another where such methods are not suitable, such as using calculus in number theory without considering the fundamental differences between the two fields. For example, applying infinite series or limits from calculus to problems in number theory without accounting for the discrete nature of integers can result in paradoxical or meaningless outcomes. This phenomenon highlights the importance of context and domain-specific knowledge in mathematics, as well as the potential for creative but misleading applications when crossing these boundaries.
