The human body is a fragile thing, so until we develop regenerating limbs
and fully bionic organs, we’re largely stuck with the one we’ve got. Which
is why Jason Padgett’s story is so remarkable: Ten years ago Padgett sustained significant brain damage during a mugging—as a result, he acquired mathematical synesthesia, the savantlike power to perceive and understand complex algorithms without any prior training. At The Math Genius, he chats with Mount Sinai neuroscientist Heather Berlin about the miracles of the mind. After the heady discussion, grab a postchat drink in the museum’s café, where DJ-producer Don Cerati spins house, Latin and funk as part of its K2 Lounge festivities.