10–17 Jul 2019
Ghent
Europe/Brussels timezone

Beauty in Particle Physics

12 Jul 2019, 12:45
15m
ICC - Baeckeland 2 (Ghent)

ICC - Baeckeland 2

Ghent

Parallel talk Outreach, Education, and Diversity Outreach, Education, and Diversity

Speaker

Dr Ivan Melo (University of Žilina)

Description

Particle physicists are sometimes described as Platonists, referring to their belief that the ultimate explanation of the Universe must possess beauty. Since scientists in other fields are more sceptical about the role of beauty in science, HEP physicists are in a unique position: we know there is beauty in the fundamental laws that we discovered and this is a great message that we could share with the public. I will give a short sample of ideas of renown physicists about relation of truth and beauty, discuss beauty criteria and show examples that could appeal to young generation. I also compare scientific and artistic beauty. This topic was inspired by the panel discussions on beauty in physics the author coordinated during IPPOG meetings. A short talk on this topic was well received by the high school audience at the 2019 International Masterclasses.

Primary author

Dr Ivan Melo (University of Žilina)

Presentation materials