Who is the Goldstein of Quantum Mechanics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying a quantum mechanics textbook that parallels the significance of Goldstein's text in classical mechanics. Participants explore various textbooks and their relevance in graduate education, comparing their merits and historical context.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest Schiff's Quantum Mechanics as a potential equivalent to Goldstein's text in classical mechanics.
  • Others mention alternative texts such as J. J. Sakurai's Modern Quantum Mechanics and Leslie Ballentine's Quantum Mechanics: A Modern Development, noting their use in graduate courses.
  • One participant argues that Schiff's text mirrors the historical significance of Goldstein due to its long-standing use and lack of competition in its early years.
  • There is a discussion about the current use of Goldstein in various institutions, with some suggesting it is no longer the primary choice for graduate students.
  • Participants express a sense of nostalgia regarding traditional texts like Jackson and Goldstein, with some humorously lamenting the challenges they posed to students.
  • Another text, Messiah, is mentioned as a consideration in the context of quantum mechanics education.
  • There is anticipation for Mahan's upcoming quantum mechanics book, with participants expressing interest in its release.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a single definitive answer to the original question. Multiple competing views on which textbook serves as the "Goldstein of Quantum Mechanics" remain, with various texts being proposed and debated.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the current status of Goldstein's use in graduate programs, indicating that it may vary by institution. The discussion also reflects differing opinions on the quality and relevance of various textbooks in the context of modern education.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the evolution of quantum mechanics education, textbook recommendations for graduate studies, and the historical context of significant physics texts may find this discussion valuable.

Winzer
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What Goldstein is to Classical Mechanics, who/m is to Quantum Mechanics?
 
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Schiff.
 
While these are excellent books, arguably better to learn from than Schiff's, they aren't the best answer to the poster's question. Goldstein:
a) was the classic American grad text for generations
b) had virtually no competition in its heyday
c) was eventually joined by numerous other excellent texts
d) now seems dated in many areas of presentation and in breadth of coverage
and now, because of c and d
e) is no longer the first choice for classes nor is necessarily the best to learn from.

I claim that only Schiff's Quantum Mechanics text mirrors all of these traits.

If you want the best book, then that's another thread!
 
Is it really true that modern grad students are no longer tortured with Goldstein? Next you'll tell me they don't have to face the horrors of Jackson, either.
 
Well, maybe it was partly wishful thinking. A quick survey shows that Princeton doesn't use Goldstein, but MIT and Harvard do.

Jackson, on the other hand, is universal (and maybe always will be?)
 
We used Jose and Saletan... If you want torture, these are your guys.

Oh, and to be on topic, I suppose Schiff probably is the answer to the question as stated. I can't wait for Mahan's quantum book to come out, though.
 
  • #10
Thanks guys
 

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