If you are the kind of talent that can make significant contributions alone, that is a viable (and enviable) way of life.
But if you need to co-operate, that is really hard to do without tech. I used to do some work in algebra 20 years ago and mathematicians were one of the first branches to network extensively. It happens all too often that the other person who is interested and knowledgeable about the same arcane problem lives several time zones away.
I only got a single question wrong on the math portion of the SAT, and frankly SAT math is extremely easy. I just wasn't taking it seriously enough.
I took Calculus my first semester and scored over 98 on every test. No one else in the class scored above 80 on any of the tests. The teacher was dumbfounded.
I, of course, have a degree in mathematics... Undergrad math was... boring.
The only reason I didn't continue down the path of high level math is because it isn't profitable. It is also hell on the mind. Few understand that but it is very easy to get lost in a world of math if you are good enough at it. It consumes your entire mind. It is somewhat beautiful in that way, but doesn't lead to one become very balanced as an individual.
Cooperation is for pussies. Those who make the biggest difference in history are those who give zero shits about anyone else and devote their lives to furthering what they pursue. Very few teams can hold a candle to a dedicated prodigy.
There are these things called books. There are tons of them. They hold far more useful information that can be absorbed very rapidly compared to talking to people. Communicating with people live is... slow... tedious... and unrewarding.
But if you need to co-operate, that is really hard to do without tech. I used to do some work in algebra 20 years ago and mathematicians were one of the first branches to network extensively. It happens all too often that the other person who is interested and knowledgeable about the same arcane problem lives several time zones away.