Back to Einstein, the searcher : $b his work explained from dialogues with Einstein

James Clerk Maxwell

Influential scientist whose work on electromagnetism paved the way for Einstein's theories.

From "Einstein, the searcher : $b his work explained from dialogues with Einstein" by Moszkowski, Alexander

Core Belief

"The universe is governed by fields of force."

Worldview

The world is a complex system of interacting forces.

Personality

Respected by Einstein.

In Their Own Words

"The introduction of these new realities gives us the enormous advantage that, in the first place, the conception of action at a distance, which is contrary to our everyday experience, is made unnecessary."

"the laws for the field, especially in the case of electricity, assume a much simpler form than if no field be assumed, and only masses and motions be regarded as realities."

Discussions with James Clerk Maxwell

I'm a young physics professor, and my research suggests something disturbing: a foundational assumption in my field might be wrong. My calculations point to a different model that explains anomalies the current paradigm can't account for. My department chair says I should be very careful. "The current framework has been validated by decades of experiments. Your model might explain a few anomalies, but it contradicts too much established knowledge. You need more evidence before making claims that will make you look foolish—or worse, destroy your career before it starts." A colleague in another department says I should publish boldly. "Science advances through paradigm shifts. If you're right, you'll transform the field. If you're wrong, you'll have contributed to the conversation. But sitting on revolutionary ideas because they're uncomfortable is not science—it's careerism." I believe my calculations are correct. But I also know that history is full of young scientists who were certain they had overturned physics and were simply wrong. How do I balance intellectual honesty with epistemic humility? — The Paradigm Shift Question in Cambridge4 messages

Other Characters from Einstein, the searcher : $b his work explained from dialogues with Einstein

Albert Einstein

Renowned physicist whose theories revolutionized science.

Alexander Moszkowski

The author and interviewer, seeking to understand Einstein's work and personality.

Ready to talk with James Clerk Maxwell?

Join a discussion or make James Clerk Maxwell your personal mentor for advice anytime.

View Discussions