You’re Likely a Physicist if…
Posted by Jacqui on November 11, 2009
Do you wake up in the middle of the night looking for a pen and paper to write down the answer to a formula you 
spent most of yesterday noodling over? Do you use a light discussion about string theory as an ice breaker at a party? Do you not only know what a black hole is, but that most galaxies have them?
If so, then you’ll be nodding your head as you read these seven questions that keep physicists awake at night:
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Why this universe?
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What is everything made of?
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How does complexity happen?
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Will string theory ever be proved correct?
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What is the singularity?
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What is reality really?
- How far can physics take us?
If that’s not you, but this topic intrigues you, you are definitely a writer. We’re always rooting through stories for odd characteristics, interesting settings, unique subplots. The absent minded physicist is common, but oh so appealing in any story. The brilliant intellect with childish innocence–who wouldn’t want to read about that character?
Want to know more. Read on:
Seven questions that keep physicists up at night
October 2009 by Ivan Semeniuk, Waterloo
It’s not your average confession show: a panel of leading physicists spilling the beans about what keeps them tossing and turning in the wee hours.
That was the scene a few days ago in front of a packed auditorium at the Perimeter Institute, in Waterloo, Canada, when a panel of physicists was asked to respond to a single question: “What keeps you awake at night?”
The discussion was part of “Quantum to Cosmos“, a 10-day physics extravaganza, which ends on Sunday.
While most panelists professed to sleep very soundly, here are seven key conundrums that emerged during the session, which can be viewed here.
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I’ve pondered the mysteries of the universe quite a bit in my time, but I don’t consider myself a physicist. I suppose that means I’m a writer. Hooray for humans. I personally thought that most people ponder these things– how can one not be curious and not want to learn about them? But I suppose a lot of people these days are caught up more in superficial things like celebrities and entertainment and are too “busy” to think in depths. Entertainment, of course, has its place, but it is most definitely not meant to be at the forefront of all we do. Alas.
In a parallel universe, Jordan, I do believe you’re a physicist.
I actually plan to major in physics, so this was an intriguing article.