Q&A: Physics
Physics
Question
Hello Rabbi.
I looked around and didn’t really find much of yours on the subject of physics.
I’d be happy to hear from the Rabbi what he thinks the motivation for engaging in physics should be. In addition, I’d appreciate it if you could point me to things you’ve written on the subject, if there are any (form or content).
I’d also be glad to know whether and where it’s possible to find your doctoral dissertation and your postdoctoral work, and if not, whether you could upload them.
Answer
What does it mean, what the motivation “should” be? It doesn’t have to be anything. Each person has his own motivation.
You can find the works in the main library at Bar-Ilan. Digital files—who even mentioned such a thing? You’re talking about the ancient world.
Discussion on Answer
I disagree. The problem with exterminating kittens is not that this is the motivation for studying physics. That itself is morally flawed.
I studied it because it interested me.
Thank you very much for the reference, Rabbi.
I wrote “should” because it’s possible that there is a preferable motivation / motivations that you think are not worthy. For example, I know at least about myself that I think engaging in physics out of a motivation to exterminate the kittens from the face of the earth is a motivation that “should” not be (in the normative sense) a motivation for engaging in physics.
But I can certainly ask the question in a less normative way.
I’d be glad to know what your motivation for engaging in physics was / still is.