Can Astrophysics Reveal Our Place in the Universe and Ourselves?

[Conjoined]

I saw this image when I was a kid. The photograph of Jupiter taken by NASA's Voyager. Beautiful. But nothing special until shown in rapid succession. Suddenly Jupiter was alive. Breathing. I was hypnotized. I was stuck in this..overwhelming..magnetic..trance.

Astrophysics, with its hybrid mixture of Math and Physics and Astronomy, etc., has always made me feel humble and happy but I'm constantly overwhelmed by all the knowledge and hardship it can bring..I sometimes think that I can never learn or experience it all. That's when I stop trying at all and try to ignore it..trying something else. But I just can't..it's too endearing to let go. I continually feel like I should read and read and read and soak up has much has possible but it makes me feel so..fake. Like I'm forcing myself..when I should just want it..and I do..I then sense that there's other people who are smarter and faster and overall better than me at this and that's when I feel belittled and senseless again. Maybe I'm just being stupid..but it does make me feel less confident. I know I could do this but I just question it sometimes whether I truly want it or not. I'm just scared that this 'field' will eat me alive. I'm always stuck in my head and over thinking things that should be rational and simple..but nothing ever is. Sorry if this became some sort of self loathing post but I just need a little bit of guidance and strategy on where to begin. I've been reading some posts on this forum and everyone seems so insightful and wonderful. So please guide and amaze me!

 

[ibysaiyan]

If this is the track you chose without anyone forcing you then you have put up a race...

In the end , you are the sole person to decide whether all this study/information is worth it or not. Let me tell you one thing , the beauty of science is that it entices curiosity and our sense of bewilderment further , deep.

 

[Conjoined]

If this is the track you chose without anyone forcing you then you have put up a race...

In the end , you are the sole person to decide whether all this study/information is worth it or not. Let me tell you one thing , the beauty of science is that it entices curiosity and our sense of bewilderment further , deep.

And it is beautiful but it can be overwhelming and it can make you feel so insignificant and isolated sometimes.

 

[Drakkith]

And it is beautiful but it can be overwhelming and it can make you feel so insignificant and isolated sometimes.

Perhaps. But realize you are insignificant and isolated with 6 billion other insignificant and isolated people!

 

[pmacias]

I can understand the feelings of being overwhelmed and intimidated by the vastness and complexity of astrophysics. It is a field that requires a strong understanding of mathematics, physics, and astronomy, and it can be daunting to try and absorb all of that information. But I want to assure you that these feelings are completely normal and shared by many in the scientific community.

What I find most intriguing about astrophysics is its ability to inspire a sense of wonder and self-discovery. The image of Jupiter that you saw as a child, and the subsequent realization that it was alive and breathing, is a perfect example of this. Astrophysics has the power to take us beyond our own world and show us the vastness and diversity of the universe, and in doing so, it can also help us understand ourselves and our place in the cosmos.

It is true that there will always be people who are smarter, faster, and more knowledgeable than us in any field. But that should not discourage us from pursuing our passions and interests. Each of us brings our own unique perspective and understanding to the table, and that is what makes the scientific community so diverse and dynamic.

My advice to you would be to not focus on trying to learn everything at once. Instead, start with the basics and build a strong foundation of understanding. Take your time to absorb the information and don't be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance from others. And most importantly, don't forget to take breaks and enjoy the journey of self-discovery that astrophysics offers.

Remember, science is not about being the best or the smartest, it's about curiosity, exploration, and a willingness to learn and grow. So don't let your fears hold you back, embrace them as a part of the journey and keep moving forward. I have no doubt that you have the potential to do great things in the field of astrophysics. Good luck!