Slashdot Mirror


Tattoos For the Math and Science Geek?

An anonymous reader writes "I've been thinking of getting a sleeve of math and science tattoos for quite a while now. With the money saved up, the only question remaining is, what equations/ideas should I get? I know for certain that I'm going to include some of Maxwell's equations, and definitely Ohm's Law. So, if you were going to put a tribute to the great math and science minds on your body forever, which ones would you choose?"

44 of 1,186 comments (clear)

  1. Not me but... by TheRaven64 · · Score: 4, Funny

    Someone I know recently got a lambda tattooed on his finger. Now he can bind people into expressions just by raising his middle digit.

    --
    I am TheRaven on Soylent News
  2. Before you do it by mangu · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Think twice. Do you *really* think this will be so important to you forever?

    1. Re:Before you do it by TheKidWho · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Even worse, what if we find out the laws are wrong?

    2. Re:Before you do it by mabersold · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Indeed. Remember, tastes change, but tattoos are permanent. Think that over a few times before getting one.

    3. Re:Before you do it by Nerdfest · · Score: 5, Funny

      if he was going for a big cock on his forhead, maybe $60

      Crap. I got completely ripped off on mine.

    4. Re:Before you do it by Another,+completely · · Score: 4, Funny

      do you *really* think that the laws of physics will ever be less important?

      Right, but which of those rules won't change. F=ma? Good approximation for large, slow things, but not actually true since we found out about the speed of light. What happens when we explain dark matter and dark energy? Physics is all subject to change, since it tries to approximate a set of rules that we aren't really sure about. Mathematics is constant because it writes its own rules.

      The perfect tattoo: in a single 72-point font, the last digit of Pi.

      Backup plan: your five top choices for laws of physics that we all know to be true today, but that we will know to be false before you die. Then you can cross them out as they are disproven.

    5. Re:Before you do it by Peach+Rings · · Score: 4, Insightful

      In that case, definitely the most beautiful and famous theorem you can come up with is Euler's identity. e^(i*Pi) = -1.

    6. Re:Before you do it by Gravitron+5000 · · Score: 5, Funny

      I mean, if he was going for a big cock on his forhead, maybe $60 or so, then I would agree but...

      Note that no tattoo was mentioned in that sentence ...

    7. Re:Before you do it by Grishnakh · · Score: 4, Insightful

      They ARE wrong, especially Ohm's Law. They're very, very good approximations for most cases, but they're not exactly correct. Even Einstein's equations are probably wrong, and don't agree with actual results in navigation of space probes: see the Pioneer Anomaly.

      If you want equations that are exactly correct, stick to proven mathematical theorems, like a^2 + b^2 = c^2, not equations describing physics.

    8. Re:Before you do it by jsveiga · · Score: 4, Funny

      Also consider the possibility that this could get you in trouble in a math/physics exam. I thought I'd never go back to a classroom, but was pushed into a post-grad course - and was prohibited to use my old faithful HP49G on the financial/accounting exams "because it is alphanumeric and can be used for cheating"! I had to borrow a 30 year old 12c, but you won't be able to borrow a clean pair of arms.

    9. Re:Before you do it by daeley · · Score: 4, Insightful

      We're supposed to be logical and have superior reasoning abilities, and there's absolutely nothing logical or reasonable about getting ink permanently injected into your skin.

      Yes, because making snap, blanket statements about people's lifestyle choices is the epitome of logic and reason.

      --
      I watched C-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhauser gate.
    10. Re:Before you do it by Colonel+Korn · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Think twice. Do you *really* think this will be so important to you forever?

      A good test is to think about your favorite thing when you were one half your current age. If you had that tatooed on you today, would you be happy about it? Your future self may feel the same about your current fashion interests.

      --
      "I zero-index my hamsters" - Willtor (147206)
    11. Re:Before you do it by Zerth · · Score: 5, Funny

      If you want art, get it on paper or canvas so you can pass it down to your descendants, not something that's destined to die when you do

      Apparently you have never heard of a process called "tanning". Some of us still have grand-dad's WWI tattoos, nicely framed.

    12. Re:Before you do it by severoon · · Score: 4, Informative

      Um, if you're gonna get it tattoo'd, you probably want to go with the more traditional form of: e^(i*pi) + 1 = 0. This single equation shows a relationship between 5 important mathematical constants, as opposed to the other form, which just shows 3 (I don't think -1 qualifies, as i is the more fundamental).

      Or, you could go with the more general form: e^(i*theta) = cos(theta) + i*sin(theta).

      I might also go with the Euler product form of the Riemann zeta function, arguably the greatest unsolved problem in all of mathematics: sigma(n=1, infinity, n^-s) = pi(p prime, inv(1 - p^-s)).

      I wouldn't worry about putting stuff on your arm that might get proven wrong—it doesn't mean F=m*a isn't a significant step in the evolution of human thought just because Einstein improved upon it. Speaking of Einstein, how about the Minkowski invariance relation (I think that's what it's called?): s^2 = x^2 + y^2 + z^2 + (i*c*t)^2.

      Another significant idea worth memorializing is Godel's Incompleteness Theorem...you'd have to find a form using logic notation.

      Finally, you might think about getting N E R D C O R E across your knuckles...

      --
      but have you considered the following argument: shut up.
    13. Re:Before you do it by mea37 · · Score: 4, Insightful

      If you fire a cannon, measure where the projectile lands, and conclude that the difference between that and the value calculated by Newton's equations has anythnig to do with relativity, then you have either a very powerful cannon or a very powerful imagination.

    14. Re:Before you do it by Idbar · · Score: 5, Interesting

      Well... I guess you can always start with 3.14 and keep adding decimals with time, as you feel more confident about having tattoos.

    15. Re:Before you do it by morari · · Score: 4, Funny

      Hm... You know what, I think I'd be okay with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle tattoo. Thanks for the advice!

      --
      "He who can destroy a thing, controls a thing." --Paul Atreides, Dune
  3. Euler's identity by butterflysrage · · Score: 5, Insightful

    0=e^(i*pi)+1

    --
    the preceding post was not spell checked... suck it.
  4. Euler's Identity, Entropy & Gaussian Distribut by eldavojohn · · Score: 4, Interesting

    Personally, I've always enjoyed the beauty of Euler's identity, any form of Gaussian (normal) distribution which has a standard form here and entropy in regards to information theory. Of course, these are just personal favorites -- the last two because I am a computer scientist with so much college work hinging on them. You probably have personal favorites in chemistry or physics or another field even. Honestly, the loan formula is probably one of the most widely used and life changing formulas in the United States today -- especially given the recent financial crisis. I think it would be best for you to draw up your own formulas in a geometric display rather than someone else's symbols. I suppose that would require extreme precision on the end of the artist and also introduce interesting problems with the elasticity of your skin ... but I'm one for originality especially if you're about to mark yourself in a relatively permanent way.

    --
    My work here is dung.
  5. Don't ask for other people's opinions. by Ed+Bugg · · Score: 5, Insightful

    If you don't know what you want then just wait until you do. One of the worst things you can do for a tattoo is ask what other people think you should get. You'll end up with something that they want and it may be cool now but years down the road it won't mean anything to you.

    Tattoo's are suppose to be for life. If it's something that you foresee down the road that you'll not be interested in and go "why did I ever do that, ugh that's so yesterday" it wasn't a very good idea.

    --
    -- Ed Bugg --You have freedom of choice, but not of consequences.--
  6. the empty set by Saint+Stephen · · Score: 4, Insightful

    The coolest math tattoo you could get would be nothing at all. Just hold up your arm and say "it's the empty set" and have them marvel at your coolness.

    Seriously, tattoos are lame. Resist the urge. It's going to be an ugly green smear you will regrat.

    1. Re:the empty set by gstoddart · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Seriously, tattoos are lame.

      Tattoos aren't in and of themselves lame. People get all sort of lame tattoos, however. There's an awful lot of really beautiful stuff out there too.

      It's going to be an ugly green smear you will regrat (sic).

      You're largely thinking of low-quality ones done in pen ink by some guy in a back room. Those tend to be real crap jobs that over time look like shit.

      Modern tattoos done by a qualified artist are an entirely different animal in terms of how they look, and how they hold up over time.

      And, really, if the sum total you have to add is "tattoos are lame", why are you even bothering to comment? You obviously have nothing better to contribute to the topic.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    2. Re:the empty set by xednieht · · Score: 5, Insightful

      Nothing screams (or bleats) "I'm a sheep" like getting a tatto in 2010. Want to do something more rewarding personally and socially... sponsor a child's education in a third world country. Bring math to another mind.

      --

      Hope is the currency of fools
  7. Beta mu pi... by WilyCoder · · Score: 4, Funny

    In the greek alphabet:

    beta mu pi integral of e^x

    which gives you

    ButtSex

  8. Re:Quite simply, by jockeys · · Score: 4, Funny

    P=NP? die, heretic scum!

    --

    In Soviet Russia jokes are formulaic and decidedly non-humorous.
  9. Seriously? by sean_nestor · · Score: 5, Insightful
    In what way will having these tattoos enhance your existence? Do you really foresee finding it "cool" ten years from now? Or twenty? If you have to ask what it is you want tattooed, that should be sign enough that it isn't something you want permanently engraved into your skin.

    Think of how dignified those tattoos will look when you age and your whole body looks like Reagan's neck. Do you really want to explain to your grandkids why you thought a math equation or Mighty Mouse or a kanji character that means "desk" was something that held enough meaning that it required you to permanently scar your body with it?

    This applies to everyone who resolves to get a tattoo before deciding what it is of, btw.

  10. Science Tattoo Emporium by nacturation · · Score: 5, Informative
    --
    Want to improve your Karma? Instead of "Post Anonymously", try the "Post Humously" option.
  11. I like the fermata symbol by mollog · · Score: 4, Funny

    I like musicians who get the fermata symbol tattooed on their bodies. (Hold me.)

    --
    Best regards.
  12. Get a fractal by ALeavitt · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Get a full sleeve of the Mandelbrot set drawn with (literally) painstaking detail and accuracy. That should keep you and your tattoo artist busy for a while.

    --
    This sig has been stolen. Return it to its original user for a reward.
  13. Don't do it! by Average_Joe_Sixpack · · Score: 5, Funny

    in the 90s I got a tattoo of the solar system on my back and brontosaurus tattoo on my chest. now both are incorrect :(

  14. Re:Let me see. by MightyYar · · Score: 4, Insightful

    I think by "superficial", he means that they are purely decorative - even if of some sentimental value to the wearer.

    And this is true, but I wouldn't tell someone not to wear their wedding ring just because it is superficial.

    I'd be much more concerned about the expense of laser removal once the tattoo fad passes.

    And if you don't think that this is a fashion fad, may I interest you in some vintage mid-90s facial piercings? You'll never need cosmetic earlobe repair surgery, because giant, comical rings embedded in your earlobes will be cool forever.

    --
    W..w..W - Willy Waterloo washes Warren Wiggins who is washing Waldo Woo.
  15. Re:Smith Chart by Peach+Rings · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Don't mod me for flamebait but I think that really looks bad. Tattoos rarely look good in their prime, and always end up faded and smudged. They don't make you look tough or interesting, just trashy.

  16. Be unique... by Rooked_One · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Don't get any tattoos. I can only name 2 people that I know that don't have something...

    The older I get, the older that the "hip" crowd gets, and it just looks plain pathetic to be 30+ and have all these tattoos... Just think how bad the population is going to look 20 years from now - you'll have all these 40 yr olds that have way too much "ink" and you'll have none. I can't wait to be one of the very very few people who can say "I didn't get a tattoo because I wanted to be unique" at my 20 yr high school reunion.

  17. Re:Smith Chart by JWSmythe · · Score: 4, Insightful

        It really depends on the tattoo, and how it was intended to look. Other factors include how the person takes care of themselves. A lot of people don't consider, "how will this look in 30 years." The same goes for body piercings. How will it all look when you're collecting your kids from school, when your grandkids are born, or when you're 90+ years old in a nursing home. Likewise, a sleeve (like the article asks) it may seem like a great idea, until you get a job somewhere in the Southern US, at a company with a strict policy about visible tattoos.

        I've known folks who had needed to wear long sleeves year round, because they loved the idea of getting a tattoo that everyone would see and appreciate, a decade before. It's all fun and games until it's 110+ degrees outside, and you wish you could toss off the shirt before getting into the oven previously known as "your car", except the office "no visible tattoo" policy extends to everywhere "office" including the parking lot and anywhere visible from the parking lot.

        That's not to say don't get one. Just consider what the future results could be. Folks do all kinds of crazy things to themselves. There are a whole bunch of body modifications that can be (and are) done. Is a face tattoo, or even math equations from your ears to your fingertips really the best way to express yourself?

    --
    Serious? Seriousness is well above my pay grade.
  18. alternative choice by hduff · · Score: 4, Funny

    Get tats of chicks with big boobs -- boobs can never, ever be proven wrong.

    --
    "I believe in Karma. That means I can do bad things to people all day long and I assume they deserve it." : Dogbert
  19. Re:No. Tattoos look like trash. by D+Ninja · · Score: 4, Funny

    That's why you show up for a date bathed and with your teeth brushed.

    Ohhhh...

  20. The Question! by Per+Wigren · · Score: 4, Interesting

    You should tattoo pi * 1337%

    --
    My other account has a 3-digit UID.
  21. Re:No. Tattoos look like trash. by mdarksbane · · Score: 4, Funny

    Umm, no? He realizes that while he likes his tattoos not everyone shares his opinions?

    I think my cock is awesome but I don't show up for a job interview in crotchless chaps.

  22. No it isn't by Weaselmancer · · Score: 5, Insightful

    The "no visible tattoo" policy is the antithesis of the 1st Amendment.

    Please people, read the first amendment and try to understand it.

    "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

    It starts - and pay attention - "Congress shall make no law".

    Do you see anywhere that Congress has made a law that says visible tattoos are bad?

    This is a corporate policy. If you are hired, they are welcoming you in the door onto their property - on their terms. If they say you have to wear purple underwear to work here, guess what? YOU DO.

    Employment is optional. Nobody has to give you a job. If they don't like your tattoos they don't have to hire you. It is really as simple as that. You have to do what the boss says - it's a job. It is not a right.

    So back OT, to the guy who wants a sleeve of math equations, my advice would be DON'T. It's fun, it's nerdy, I can see the appeal. But you are limiting your options.

    --
    Weaselmancer
    rediculous.
    1. Re:No it isn't by Peach+Rings · · Score: 4, Interesting

      Nobody has to give you a job. If they don't like your 'x' they don't have to hire you.

      Note that the employer is breaking federal law if 'x' is:

      • race, color, religion, sex, age, ethnic group, or national origin
      • disability
      • genetic information
      • association with or marriage to someone (on the basis of race, religion, national origin, or disability)
      • previous discrimination lawsuits, or participating in discrimination investigations
      • participation in schools or places of worship associated with a particular racial, ethnic, or religious group

      States have innumerable laws such as can't make hiring, firing, compensation, layoff, transfer, training, benefits, retirement, or promotion decisions based on:

      • status as a parent
      • pregnancy
      • results of a lie detector test
      • marital status
      • sexual orientation
      • political affiliation

      So clearly employees do have recourse for discrimination. Your "a job is a privilege not a right" is about a hundred years late.

      Also, yes the first amendment only applies to congress (and state governments from the 14th amendment) but the question here isn't of law, it's of whether something is right or wrong. Freedom of speech is the defining principle of American culture and law, and its violation is rightfully greeted with disgust.

    2. Re:No it isn't by Weaselmancer · · Score: 4, Insightful

      the question here isn't of law, it's of whether something is right or wrong.

      Ah, but it *is* a question of law. That was my whole point.

      OP said that the First Amendment somehow made it okay for him to have tattoos and get any job he wants. Which is absolutely silly if you've ever taken the time to read it. The First Amendment only prohibits Congress from making laws that abridge free speech.

      The morality of it is a different conversation, and one that has absolutely nothing to do with the First Amendment.

      --
      Weaselmancer
      rediculous.
  23. How to pick a tattoo by ari_j · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Here is my rule for tattoos: Select the exact design and location you want to have. If you still want that exact design and location in ten years, then get it. Otherwise, or if you change the tattoo or its location even in some minute point within those ten years, the clock starts over.

  24. Really? by Weaselmancer · · Score: 4, Informative

    This is the most poignant question you've seen in a long time? Seriously?

    Ok, look. Here's some wiki for you.

    2,332,760 / 4,314,880 * 100% = 54%

    54% of the arable land in North America is not utilized. If you want to live on a farm go do it. Uncle Sam will even help. But if you're totally punk rock and don't want to "be part of the machine", then go be Amish. They manage it pretty well.

    The reason why nobody actually does this is because that way of life is stupefyingly difficult. Up before dawn to a full day of hard labor every single day.

    Go spend a week on a real farm. Just a single week. I'm sure they'd be glad for the help. I'll bet you don't last two days. I doubt I would.

    --
    Weaselmancer
    rediculous.
  25. Re:No. Tattoos look like trash. by Achra · · Score: 5, Insightful

    By the gods, I wish that I had modpoints today. Protip: Don't argue against tattoos to the tattoo'd. They are maniacally pro-ink (and they MUST be! They'll be inked for the rest of their lives!). As the saying goes: If you have no tattoos, don't get any tattoos. If you HAVE tattoos, get MORE tattoos. It used to be that tattoos and body modifications were mostly used as a mechanism to show membership in a particular group. Nowadays, it seems that people get ink to show that they are a member of the "people who have ink" group. Not sure what to make of that, tempted to think "fad", just as you stated. I'm sure I'll be flamed for this, just like you were. I was a US Marine (am, I suppose. Once/Always, etc.) and I saw more young marines getting inked than NOT getting inked. They wanted to show that they were part of a group, that they belonged. I managed to avoid getting inked back then, and I figure if I didn't get inked in the Marines, then I might as well skip it going forward. I'm not against a tasteful tattoo on a man, think tattoos on women are gross, and think that all of the "people who judge me based on my tattoos are wrong." crowd are naive. People judge me based on my face and appearance all day long. As a people, we look at a face and body and make a snap decision about that person. It is how we've evolved to survive. and to be honest, I know that the in-your-face tattoo crowd are making snap judgements about my face when they see it, too.

    --
    Each processor would proceed sequentially as if it had been better for them not to rise against Saul.