Is Edward Witten More Mathematician or Physicist?

Edward Witten, celebrated for unifying the five versions of string theory into M-theory, is recognized as a leading figure in both mathematics and physics. The discussion highlights his intelligence and contributions, with participants acknowledging his dual role as a mathematician and physicist. Some express surprise that not everyone is familiar with Witten's work, emphasizing his significance in the scientific community. The conversation also touches on the nature of physicists' work, contrasting theoretical contributions with experimental practices. Ultimately, the thread serves as a tribute to Witten's impact on science, coinciding with his birthday celebration.