Pursuing Physics & Philosophy: Is It Possible? | Honors Degree

In summary: If you want to be a theoretical physicist you will need a PhD in physics. Philosophy will only help you to understand the nature of the physical world.
  • #1
Isilya
1
0
I am currently taking Philosophy and Physics together. Focusing on the philosophy of physics and metaphysics. Eventually I want to work in either materials, quantum or in particle physics.
I want to get an honors degree in both subjects, or combine them some how.
To get my masters, is there anyway to combine the two or do I have to pursue them separately?
AM I hurting my chances by pursuing both?

Any comments would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
doctor of philosophy in physics
 
  • #3
Is it crazy to go for both PhDs? or at least a masters in one PhD in the other?
 
  • #4
Crazy yes, impossible no. Where are you in your studies exactly? If you simply enjoy learning the subjects there are other ways to learn them besides getting a degree. If you plan to work as a physicist then you will need a phd. Obtaining one requires many years of hard work.
 
  • #5
I would suggest pursuing a physics graduate degree first. One can always maintain a healthy interest in philosophy without pursuing it with formal education. The reverse is much more difficult.
 
  • #6
I am mostly done my BA in philosophy, with a decent focus on the philosophy of science/physics and math and metaphysics. I have enough credits in physics to get a minor but I'm aiming for the PhD in physics b/c I want to do research.

While you can pursue philosophy in one's spare time, the truly insightful bit always come out of focused debate and discussion which is hard to do outside of the academic world.

Thanks for the insight guys.
I think I will take physics to the PhD level and settle for BA in philosophy for now, Since I can combine them in an honors bachelors without losing any vital credits. ( if I can get my university to agree to it)
 
  • #7
I knew a guy who double majored in the two subjects, received his Ph.D. in philosophy studying the philosophy of science, and is now a postdoc in Germany... of course he's pretty obviously on the academic track. He seems to be doing well for himself.
 
  • #8
I know a fellow Physics major who is tripling with philosophy and math. I personally don't see any problem with such a combination.
 
  • #10
Do you really need two phds to work in two areas? I know some who have MD and some other science degree... but.

I suppose doing physics phd and then maybe doing philosophy might make more sense.
 
  • #11
I don't think Kuhn obtained a second PhD, but just moved into philosophy out of interest. Guess it partly depends on the opportunities available. For instance, if you get a grant to study with Pickering then you might only need the one PhD in philosophy of physics to forge a career in that area.
 

1. Can I pursue an honors degree in both physics and philosophy simultaneously?

Yes, it is possible to pursue an honors degree in both physics and philosophy. Many universities offer joint or dual degree programs that allow students to study both subjects in-depth and earn a degree in both fields.

2. Is it difficult to balance the coursework and requirements for both physics and philosophy?

It can be challenging to balance the coursework and requirements for both physics and philosophy, as they are two distinct and demanding subjects. However, with proper time management and organization, it is possible to successfully complete both degrees.

3. What are the potential career paths for someone with an honors degree in physics and philosophy?

Graduates with an honors degree in physics and philosophy have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can pursue careers in fields such as research, academia, law, science writing, and many more. The combination of critical thinking skills and technical knowledge from both disciplines can be valuable in various industries.

4. How does studying both physics and philosophy complement each other?

Studying both physics and philosophy can complement each other in many ways. Philosophy can help physicists think critically about the ethical and societal implications of their research, while physics can provide philosophical insights into the nature of reality and the laws of the universe.

5. Are there any notable individuals who have pursued both physics and philosophy?

Yes, there are several notable individuals who have pursued both physics and philosophy. Some examples include Albert Einstein, who was deeply interested in philosophical questions about the nature of reality, and Erwin Schrödinger, who studied both physics and philosophy and is famous for his work on quantum mechanics.

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