1981 Robert A. Millikan Lecture, Steven’s Point, Wisconsin, 17 June 1981 ’’Are we overlooking something?’’

Abstract

In recent decades great strides have been made in advancing the analytical level and content of introductory college physics for scientists and engineers. In order to accomodate these advances, ’’nonessential’’ or ’’less essential’’ materials may be sidetracked, de-emphasized, or omitted. Perhaps the most common candidates for characterization as nonessential are the elementary examples and applications of physics from the world of everyday experience. Although mature physicists see great beauty and understanding in analysis, a heavy classroom emphasis on mathematical analysis may give students the impression that the sole goal of elementary physics is the development of the skills of abstract analysis. Analysis is essential! But if our students are to become more than mere analysts, we must share with them some of the fun, fascination, and understanding that can be found in the physics of everyday phenomena, in the applications of physics in other disciplines, and in the interface between science and society. Examples the author has found to be useful are given.