Recreational Mathematics is a broad term that covers many different areas including games, puzzles, magic, and art, as defined by the corresponding Special Interests Group of the MAA (SIGMAA). The fact that it studies the math behind various entertaining subjects, doesn’t make it less serious or formal. Part of the magic of Recreational Mathematics is that it is appealing to non-mathematical audiences, yet there’s really deep math involved, including problems that have not been solved.
BAMM organizes events within the Department to promote Recreational Mathematics as an entrance ticket to the world of advanced mathematics. This work includes inviting people in math to share their love for mathematics and communicate it to non-expert audiences.