Why the History of Physics Matters

The Niels Bohr Library & Archives boasts a robust archival collection about the history of physics. As an SPS Intern for the Library, I was tasked with highlighting the human story behind scientific discoveries through a physical and online, museum-style exhibit that utilizes the Library’s documents and images. In contemplating a theme for the exhibit, I determined that questioning why the history of physics matters in the first place would be important. The intent was to engage people outside of the field of history, especially other physics students, with the resources that the Library provides. Initiating this engagement necessitated an explanation of the relevance of the history of physics to physics. History is often disregarded as extraneous or inconsequential to scientific work. But, history is inherently connected to all facets of scientific inquiry because it documents all attempted, achieved, and anticipated discoveries. Drudging up the history textbooks may seem like an absurd way to advance science, but because history involves a collection of ideas, theories, and equations that becomes the foundation for future improvements, understanding the history of physics is undoubtedly indispensable.