Ed Witten's contributions to mathematics are widely regarded as legitimate and significant within the field. While Witten is well-known for his work in string theory and theoretical physics, he has also made substantial contributions to pure mathematics, particularly in the field of geometry and topology.
In 1990, Ed Witten was awarded the Fields Medal, which is one of the highest honors in mathematics, for his profound insights and influential work in various mathematical areas. This recognition underscores the legitimacy and impact of his mathematical contributions.
Witten's work has bridged the gap between physics and mathematics, leading to new insights and discoveries in both disciplines. His contributions include the development of mathematical tools and techniques to study problems in physics, such as topological quantum field theory and supersymmetry. These contributions have opened up new avenues for research and have had a profound impact on both theoretical physics and pure mathematics.
It's important to note that the field of string theory, which Witten has made significant contributions to, is a subject of active research and debate. String theory attempts to provide a unified framework for understanding the fundamental particles and forces of nature. While it has not yet been experimentally confirmed, it has led to important mathematical insights and connections.
In summary, Ed Witten's mathematical contributions are highly regarded within the mathematical community, and his work in areas such as string theory has stimulated significant advancements and deepened our understanding of both physics and mathematics.