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garra
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I wondered this when i saw that Robert Penrose its a physicist and a mathematician.
If i dont do a math physics degree I wont be effective?
If i dont do a math physics degree I wont be effective?
How hard do you think it would be to Google something like "who are the current leaders in theoretical physics" and then look up whether or not they have a degree in math? I did that and the result is easily obtained and definitive.garra said:I wondered this when i saw that Robert Penrose its a physicist and a mathematician.
If i dont do a math physics degree I wont be effective?
While I agree with your point, here is one of thise cases where Google bobbles it. About a third of "the current leaders in theoretical physics" are dead,phinds said:How hard do you think it would be to Google something like "who are the current leaders in theoretical physics" and then look up whether or not they have a degree in math? I
I had a friend who was studying physics and math at uni. I was worried that my only physics degree wouldn't be enoughVanadium 50 said:I don't know what a "math physics degree" is, but most theoretical physicists have degrees in physics.
Which totally avoids any response to my statement.garra said:I had a friend who was studying physics and math at uni. I was worried that my only physics degree wouldn't be enough
Yeah, but before they died, they didn't have math degreesVanadium 50 said:While I agree with your point, here is one of thise cases where Google bobbles it. About a third of "the current leaders in theoretical physics" are dead,
Nor after, for that matter.phinds said:Yeah, but before they died, they didn't have math degrees
Based on a quick Google search, many universities have procedures for awarding posthumous degrees.Vanadium 50 said:Nor after, for that matter.
Having a formal double major or a major/minor in Physics and Math is less important than the actual math courses you've taken.garra said:I had a friend who was studying physics and math at uni. I was worried that my only physics degree wouldn't be enough
garra said:I wondered this when i saw that Robert Penrose its a physicist and a mathematician.
If i dont do a math physics degree I wont be effective?
Yes. Im so embarrassedrobphy said:I think you mean Roger Penrose,
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Penrose ,
who has degrees in mathematics
and made substantial contributions in various fields involving mathematics, including general relativity.
Haborix said:Don't get too distracted by seeking credentials (e.g., this degree, that degree, this certification, that certification). Figure out what you want to do, see what you need to know to do it, and start learning.
You are right, a single link is enough:martinbn said:It seems that it would be easier to list the physicists with a physics degree.
Define ”excellent”, ”theorist”, and ”math degree”haushofer said:Also, I ended up being an excellent theorist without a math degree
Dyson never got a PhD.Vanadium 50 said:The time between today and when Dyson got his PhD
But he only missed by *this* much!pines-demon said:Dyson never got a PhD.
I'll probably end up being disappointed, so let me keep my illusionsOrodruin said:Define ”excellent”, ”theorist”, and ”math degree”
While having a strong foundation in mathematics is typically important for theoretical work, it is not impossible to be a good theorist without a formal degree in math. Many successful theorists have backgrounds in other fields such as physics, computer science, or engineering, and have developed their mathematical skills through self-study and practical application.
Having a deep understanding of advanced math can certainly be beneficial for theoretical work, but it is not always necessary. Depending on the specific area of theory you are interested in, you may be able to focus on developing a solid understanding of the relevant mathematical concepts without needing to master every advanced topic. It is more important to have a strong grasp of the fundamental principles and be able to apply them effectively.
Yes, it is possible to learn math as you go along in your theoretical work. Many theorists continue to improve their mathematical skills throughout their careers by studying new concepts as needed for their research. This approach may require extra effort and dedication, but it is certainly achievable with persistence and a willingness to learn.
There are numerous resources available to help you improve your math skills for theoretical work. Online courses, textbooks, academic journals, and research papers are all valuable sources of information that can help you develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Additionally, seeking guidance from mentors or collaborating with colleagues who have strong math backgrounds can also be beneficial.
While having a strong mathematical background is typically advantageous for theoretical work, it is still possible to succeed as a theorist with a limited mathematical background. By focusing on developing a solid understanding of the key mathematical concepts relevant to your area of interest and seeking support from others with more advanced math skills, you can still make valuable contributions to theoretical research.