Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the existence and accessibility of J. Robert Oppenheimer's quantum mechanics (QM) lecture notes. Participants explore where these notes might be found, their historical significance, and connections to other works in quantum theory.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about the existence and location of Oppenheimer's QM lecture notes, referencing a specific online resource.
- Another participant confirms that the notes are available at Caltech, UC Berkeley, and Oklahoma, providing a link to a catalog entry.
- A participant expresses disappointment that the notes have not been published.
- A user claims to have the notes, stating they are inherited from a family member connected to Oppenheimer, but offers limited details.
- Another participant expresses willingness to pay for reproduction and mailing costs for a copy of the notes, mentioning a desire to compare them with Schiff's book.
- One participant expresses enthusiasm about the potential availability of the notes, indicating broad interest in them.
- A new user from Australia expresses a strong desire to obtain a copy of the notes, citing their importance as an introduction to quantum mechanics.
- A participant questions whether Oppenheimer's lecture notes predate early influential texts on quantum theory, suggesting a historical context for the discussion.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the interest in Oppenheimer's lecture notes and their significance, but there is no consensus on their publication status or the specifics of their content.
Contextual Notes
Some participants reference other works in quantum theory, indicating a historical timeline, but the discussion does not resolve the question of whether Oppenheimer's notes are earlier than these texts.