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Mathematics is an art as old as civilization. Most of the time hidden and respected, sometimes appearing in bright light, mathematicians have always had a privileged role in society, as problem solvers, guardians of an art, deeply attached to values of intellectual freedom and opinion challenge. “The essence of mathematics lies in its freedom”, said Georg Cantor. But mathematicians are also accountable to society, which is in need of keeping a link to its most singular and respected science, especially at a time of algorithmic transformation. I was lucky enough to experience the role of mathematician as a public spokesperson, advocating for mathematical sciences as both an art and a technology creator. Later, as a member of Parliament, then head of the Scientific Parliamentary Office, I experienced the intensity and complexity of science in politics, at a time when public action needs to rest on science and when human factors are more challenging than ever.