Finding a Good Biography of a Physicist

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the search for biographies of physicists, particularly those that provide insight into the experiences of individuals who have completed a PhD in physics. Participants express their interest in finding such biographies and share their experiences and suggestions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions that reading biographies can provide ideas and expectations for those considering a PhD in physics.
  • Another participant expresses difficulty in finding biographies of physicists, questioning whether any exist that focus on their academic journeys.
  • A suggestion is made to explore Richard Feynman's works, with a specific mention of "Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!" as a potentially relevant read.
  • James Gleick's "Genius," which discusses Feynman's life, is recommended as a good read.
  • One participant suggests that instead of solely relying on books, engaging with professors in their department could provide valuable insights into their experiences in graduate school.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of biographies for understanding the path to a PhD, but there is no consensus on the availability of such biographies specifically focused on physicists' academic experiences. Multiple views on potential resources and approaches remain present.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the existence of biographies that specifically address the experiences of physicists during their graduate studies. The discussion reflects a variety of personal experiences and suggestions without resolving the question of availability.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the academic journeys of physicists, particularly those considering or currently pursuing a PhD in physics, may find this discussion relevant.

erok81
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I read in a post a while ago someone recommended reading biographies was a good way to see the path of people that have already completed a PhD. Giving you ideas and expectations of what you might see.

Of course I have a ways to go before I am in a doctorate program, but would still like to take a look at one nonetheless.

I've tried searching Amazon and this forum as well, but didn't come up with anything. Also, Barnes and Noble didn't have much either.

Have any physicists written a biography, or is my search futile? If there are any, is there one that stands out above the rest?

Thanks for the help.
 
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Try this...

http://browse.barnesandnoble.com/browse/nav.asp?visgrp=nonfiction&N=677332&Ne=170159+677332&userid=zA7kBp4CqI
 
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That is the extent of what I found. Unless I am looking at incorrectly, I can't really find anything that I am looking for. I though someone with a PhD in Physics has to have written about their life. Biographies seem so popular now a days. Maybe there aren't any geared towards what I am looking for.
 
erok81 said:
I read in a post a while ago someone recommended reading biographies was a good way to see the path of people that have already completed a PhD. Giving you ideas and expectations of what you might see.
...
Have any physicists written a biography, or is my search futile? If there are any, is there one that stands out above the rest?
Thanks for the help.

i think you mean AUTObiography... & i can't think of any that would focus on someone's trip through grad school specifically. richard feynman might have written a book that mentions stuff he did. why don't you just go door-to-door in your department & ask all the instructors about their experiences? some profs won't be interested in talking to you & if they don't just go to the next office. i think most of them would help you out if they think they could though, & if they have a few minutes to spare. i (mistakenly) didn't do stuff like that & now that I've graduated it's too late for me (as an undergrad anyway).
 
'Surely You're Joking, Mr Feynman!'

'tis very good.
 
John Bardeen:
 
Genius by James Glieck was a very good read, it talks about the life of Feynman.
 

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