This talk will be about the new course in mathematics at the University of Newcastle, MATH2005, Einstein, Bach and the Taj Mahal: Symmetry in the Arts, Sciences and Humanities. The course handbook description is:

Symmetry is an organising principle that plays a role, often unrecognised, in a vast range of disciplines, from mathematics and the physical sciences to music, design and the arts. This course aims to introduce students from a variety of disciplines to symmetry and its consequences. While symmetry is associated with beauty, balance and harmony, it is also associated with conservation, stasis and boredom, and on its own symmetry is not enough to explain the richness, diversity and dynamism of the universe. In contrast, the concept of symmetry breaking is associated with transitions and evolution, and linked to self-organisation, emergent behaviour and the appearance of information.

Beyond what is learnt about symmetry and symmetry breaking in this course, it is hoped that the concepts will challenge and change the thinking of students as they approach future subjects in their own disciplines.