- #31
J77
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Yeah - that's why I stuck it in inverted commasZapperZ said:
Personal Fable: The Illusion of Greatness in Science
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the concept of "personal fable" in the context of aspiring to greatness in the field of physics. Participants reflect on their ambitions, the psychological aspects of believing in one's potential for significant contributions, and the realities of pursuing a career in physics. The conversation touches on personal experiences, societal influences, and the challenges faced by students in STEM fields.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
- Meta-discussion
Main Points Raised
- Some participants express a desire to achieve greatness in physics, reflecting on their ambitions and the belief that they could make significant discoveries.
- Others caution against delusions of grandeur, emphasizing the rarity of achieving fame and the importance of making genuine contributions to the field.
- Several participants share personal experiences of initially believing they could be the next great physicist, only to confront the challenges and realities of the field over time.
- One participant highlights the lengthy and difficult educational path required to obtain a Ph.D. in physics, suggesting that motivation should stem from a passion for the subject rather than the pursuit of fame.
- There is a discussion about the competitive nature of the field, with some participants noting that competition can lead to discouragement.
- Some participants reflect on cultural influences, such as reality television, that may contribute to unrealistic expectations of achieving greatness.
- One participant mentions the difference between high aspirations and fantasy, suggesting that true success in research involves resilience in the face of failure.
- Another participant expresses a desire to tackle unsolved problems in physics, indicating a shift in focus from foundational knowledge to more complex challenges.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally express a mix of agreement and disagreement regarding the nature of ambition in science. While some acknowledge the importance of high aspirations, others caution against unrealistic expectations and emphasize the need for a genuine passion for the subject. The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing views on the motivations and realities of pursuing a career in physics.
Contextual Notes
Participants' reflections are influenced by their personal experiences and educational backgrounds, which vary widely. There is an acknowledgment of the psychological changes that may occur as individuals progress in their studies, but these changes are not universally defined.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to students considering a career in physics or related fields, educators exploring student motivations, and individuals reflecting on the nature of ambition and success in STEM disciplines.
- #32
genxhis
- 37
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It isn't such a bad idea to imagine your a great physicist, at least once in a while. It boosts your self-confidence and makes you feel better. But realizing your not so spectacular isn't such a bad thing either; certainly, it taught me some humility.
For the most part though, I like to think of the whole physics community as one unit. Every one, even the great ones, are "standing on the shoulders of giants." (Newton's line if you haven't heard it.)
For the most part though, I like to think of the whole physics community as one unit. Every one, even the great ones, are "standing on the shoulders of giants." (Newton's line if you haven't heard it.)
- #33
mathwonk
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Zapper is right on. Go with what you love. American idol is an absurd comparison for academia. Academic life is the opposite: to be happy one has to be content helping people, and advancing the subject you work in, in a way that will probably never bring any recognition, or even compensation remotely commensurate with your effort and ability.
American idol is perversely entertaining precisely for those persons who hope to hit the jackpot with a modicum of ability and even less effort. Don't be one of them.
American idol is perversely entertaining precisely for those persons who hope to hit the jackpot with a modicum of ability and even less effort. Don't be one of them.
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