Theoretical Physics: Field for Geniuses? Waste of Genius Mind-Power?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the perception of Theoretical Physics, particularly String Theory, as a field primarily suited for exceptionally gifted individuals. Participants express curiosity about whether significant advancements in this area are limited to a small percentage of top minds, suggesting that average professionals may primarily engage in teaching rather than groundbreaking research. There is a sentiment that the potential for discovery in Theoretical Physics may be less than in more applied fields like technology or biotechnology, especially given current technological limitations that hinder testability and practical applications of theoretical concepts. The conversation also references a previous thread that challenges the notion that only "geniuses" can contribute to Theoretical Physics and highlights the importance of experimental physics, indicating a broader perspective on the contributions within the field.
Rayne
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I know a lot of undergrads that are enamored with Theoretical Physics and things like String Theory. I suppose it is only natural for thinking individuals to be curious about the fundamental lack of understanding we have about the universe and existence, and Theoretical Physics would be the defacto field in a lot of people's minds for unlocking these mysteries.

I was just curious, is this a field for geniuses? By this I mean, I have read a little of this in posts, that most advancements are only made by a select few maybe top 1% or less of individuals. Would the average sucessful career be teaching at a University, but for the non-prodigy not really doing a lot of original work?

Also, I get the impression that the volume of research and discovery potential, for lack of better term, is less than in other physics or fields like technology, biotechnology and chemistry related fields. To the outsider it seems like an interesting field but a lack of potential for gratification through disovery and progress being in era where the technology doesn't allow even testability for a lot of the concepts let alone application; and that at least currently perhaps genius minds would be better at work on areas of physics that can lead to more practical application or other research fields with more breakthrough potential...Because it surely does not seem like we are going to be bending the time space continuum anytime soon, if ever.
 
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very helpful, thanks
 
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