Can I Pursue a Career in Physics and Math Without Formal Education?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of pursuing a career in physics and mathematics without formal education. Participants explore the value of self-directed learning versus traditional education, as well as the challenges of entering these fields without credentials.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong passion for physics and math despite lacking formal education and experience, suggesting a willingness to work for free in these fields.
  • Another participant counters that without formal education and experience, working for free may not be a viable option, advocating for discipline in attending classes and achieving good grades.
  • A different participant reiterates that formal schooling is not necessary for gaining knowledge and creativity, emphasizing their willingness to work for free due to their love for the subjects.
  • One participant highlights the competitive nature of the field, noting that many highly qualified individuals may also be willing to work for free, which complicates the job search for those without formal qualifications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of formal education for a career in physics and math. There is no consensus on whether self-directed learning can sufficiently prepare someone for a career in these fields.

Contextual Notes

Participants' claims depend on personal experiences and perceptions of the job market, and there are unresolved assumptions about the value of formal education versus self-study.

PoetaPhysics
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I have no experience in physics and have never had high grades in math, but...

I have an obsession with physics and math and love working on the two subjects and discussing theories with others. I just can't sit through classes!

I would honestly work for free in the two subjects, but I'll more than likely never find a job without education.. :(

Oh well
 
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If you have no experience and can't sit through classes, "work for free" is not such a good deal.

If this is what you want to do, discipline yourself to go to classes, get good grades, and gain some experience.
 
Actually the point I'm trying to get across is that school isn't needed to gain knowledge and creativity. I love the subjects, and therefore would work in the fields for free if I had too.

That's all I meant by 'Free Work'.
 
PoetaPhysics said:
Actually the point I'm trying to get across is that school isn't needed to gain knowledge and creativity. I love the subjects, and therefore would work in the fields for free if I had too.

That's all I meant by 'Free Work'.

The problem for you is that so would a number of highly qualified people; you're competing to see whom you can slave under for quite some time. Not what you wanted to hear I suspect, but still true.
 

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