The Disordered Cosmos

01Studying physics also means studying ourselves

In "The Disordered Cosmos," Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein makes a bold claim: studying physics isn't just about unraveling the mysteries of the universe, but also about understanding the complexities of human nature. This might sound a bit odd, considering we often think of physics as a field that's all about cold, hard facts, not the subjective experiences of people. But Dr. Prescod-Weinstein's viewpoint is shaped by her own unique journey as a queer, agender, Black woman in the world of physics, and her insights into how societal structures can shape scientific exploration. Dr. Prescod-Weinstein's love for physics started when she was just a kid, captivated by the beauty of math and the workings of the universe. But she quickly realized that her journey wasn't going to be as straightforward as that of her white, cisgender, male peers. The hurdles she faced weren't just about the brain-bending challenges of physics, but also about societal barriers rooted in racism, sexism, and homophobia. Take, for example, the stereotype that women and people of color aren't as good at science as white men. This stereotype, deeply embedded in our society, can discourage young folks from marginalized communities from even considering a career in science. And for those who do decide to take the plunge, it can create a hostile environment where they're constantly having to prove their worth and battle discrimination. According to Dr. Prescod-Weinstein, these societal barriers aren't separate from the study of physics - they're actually a part of it. They influence who gets to be a part of the field, whose voices get heard, and whose viewpoints are valued. They shape the questions we ask, the research we fund, and how we interpret our findings. So, studying physics isn't just about understanding the universe, but also about understanding the societal structures that shape our lives. In the rest of the book, Dr. Prescod-Weinstein dives into complex subjects like particle physics, quantum mechanics, and dark matter. But she doesn't discuss these topics in a vacuum. Instead, she connects them to broader conversations about social inequality in the scientific community. She emphasizes the need for more diversity and inclusion in science, arguing that different perspectives can only enhance our understanding of the universe. So, when we study physics, we're not just studying the laws that govern the universe. We're also studying the societal structures that shape our understanding of these laws. By recognizing and addressing these structures, we can make the field of physics more inclusive and fair, and in the process, deepen our understanding of the universe.