How Valid is This Proof?

Russell E. Rierson

While researching the various math topics, I stumbled upon this:

http://arxiv.org/abs/math/9810027

A Concise and Direct Proof of "Fermat's Last Theorem"
Authors: Roger Ellman (The-Origin Foundation, Inc)
Comments: 4 pages. Changes are correction of typographical errors and clearer presentation of latter part.
Subj-class: General Mathematics

The recently developed proof of Fermat's Last Theorem is very lengthy and difficult, so much so as to be beyond all but a small body of specialists. While certainly of value in the developments that resulted, that proof could not be, nor was offered as being, possibly the proof Fermat had in mind. The present proof being brief, direct and concise is a candidate for being what Fermat had in mind. It is also completely accessible to any one trained in common algebra. That critical suggestions offered by significant mathematics authorities have been unable to invalidate this concise and direct proof would tend to be major confirmation that: The proof stands, valid and not validly challenged.

What are the flaws with this "proof"?

http://arxiv.org/ftp/math/papers/9810/9810027.pdf

matt grime

Apart from the fact it is incredibly badly written, surely the fact that they don't prove that the alleged pattern actually continues should make you slightly suspicious.

page 2 step 5 is also rubbish, since there is no reason that b is independent of x, when it clearly isn't. that do you for starters?

Russell E. Rierson

Quote by matt grime

Apart from the fact it is incredibly badly written, surely the fact that they don't prove that the alleged pattern actually continues should make you slightly suspicious.

page 2 step 5 is also rubbish, since there is no reason that b is independent of x, when it clearly isn't. that do you for starters?

Yes, thank you for the help.

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matt grime Recognitions: Homework Help Science Advisor	Apart from the fact it is incredibly badly written, surely the fact that they don't prove that the alleged pattern actually continues should make you slightly suspicious. page 2 step 5 is also rubbish, since there is no reason that b is independent of x, when it clearly isn't. that do you for starters?