The Universe Speaks in Numbers The Universe Speaks in Numbers: Edward Witten interviewed by Graham Farmelo
Sep 2, 2019
Renowned physicist Edward Witten discusses his career, from early academic journey to groundbreaking work in instantons and topology. The conversation explores the fusion of mathematics and physics, the future of physics through 'It from Bit' theory, and challenges in particle physics and cosmology.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Fascination With Astronomy And Calculus
- Edward Witten explored astronomy in the space-race era and learned calculus from his father at age 11.
- His initial deep interest lapsed for a few years until later exposure rekindled it.
Detour Into Journalism And Economics
- Edward Witten considered journalism, history, and briefly studied economics before committing to physics.
- He abandoned those ideas around age 21–22 and switched to theoretical physics.
Mentors Shaped His Early Research Focus
- Witten credits Weinberg, Glashow, Georgi and Coleman as major influences during his Harvard years.
- Sidney Coleman especially steered him toward strong-coupling quantum field theory and exposed him to useful mathematics.