"Such dissolution of mathematics may be occurring already as evidenced by the proliferation and growth of fields, particularly since the middle of the last century, that have considerable mathematical content but whose fac- ulties and professional societies have little overlapping membership. When different fields sponsor different branches of mathematics, then the subfields may adopt the cultures of their sponsors, so the branches of mathematics eventually may come to disagree over acceptable notation, rigor, idiom, and terminology. Barriers among the branches of mathematics entail a large opportunity cost, so to speak, because possible collaborations and synergies may not be realized."