Marwin Handler1
1) Uni Wien, Studienvertretung Physik
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To many within the field this question might seem self-evident. An inherent fascination with understanding the complex and vast structure of our world is what drives most of the people one encounters in the diverse field of Physics.
From an individualized perspective:
To many within the field this question might seem self-evident. An inherent fascination with understanding the complex and vast structure of our world is what drives most of the people one encounters in the diverse field of Physics. Good market-prospects and a high level of job security as well as income also appeal to many. Yet that is far from all the field of Physics has to offer to the young scintillating minds of the future. By virtue of its mathematics-based nature the field of Physics brings together the most talented and eager minds when it comes to logic and structural recognition, many of whom felt out of place or ostracized in broader society. As such the university becomes fertile ground for friendships to blossom and for acceptance of ‘quirky’ and ‘irregular’ ways of thinking and navigating the world. It also represents what many did not find in basic schooling systems: A challenge for the mind, the feeling of using one’s logical and intellectual capacity to the fullest extent. It does away with most mindless memorisation in favor of a nuanced understanding of the principles behind any given topic. Lastly the reason most Physicists zite when asked about their choice of profession: The vast curiosity and fascination with the complex yet logical structure of the universe is fueled with every new topic that is taught. Complex and sometimes abstract mathematical principles are used as tools of understanding to unravel and understand the universe we live in. Many fall in love with this objective approach of understanding, despite its challenging nature and high level of complexity, and pursue a degree in physics.
From a societal perspective:
Innovation and Understanding. Advancements in Physics pave the way towards Technological innovation and form an ever-clearer picture of the structure of our world. Even the most complex principles of Physics are used wherever we look in society. Every tool we use, product we consume or environment we enter has been fundamentally shaped by the field of Physics. All other natural sciences draw on physical principles for their logical base or as an integral tool and as such any progress we have made as a species to master our world and advance towards the future we desire has been thanks to people that study the way this world works in its most rudimentary ways. Beyond the obvious importance Physics holds to any technological progress, even if a physicist is employed outside of their given field their mathematical and logical abilities are valued in a myriad of industries from finance to engineering and general management. Giving great minds the opportunity and environment to prosper has historically always been of major benefit to any given society. Any strive towards furthering the endeavors of Physics will inevitably result in more scientific tools and innovations that a just society can use to better the lives of all.