The field of physics was revolutionized by Albert Einstein's theories of relativity, the emergence of quantum mechanics, and the development of atomic and hydrogen bombs. A new scientific description of the physical world emerged. This description contained ideas that challenged common sense and earlier science, such as: (1) Space is finite and is bent by gravity. (2) Light can be both a particle and a wave. (3) Physical events have to be described statistically, not by determinate cause- and-effect. (4) For subatomic systems, the observer can't stand outside the system to see it purely objectively. These ideas and theories became visible in cyclotrons, accelerators, and other "atom smashers," but even more spectacularly and with terrifying power in nuclear and thermonuclear bombs. The fear that humankind's highest scientific achievements will destroy the world became very real, and politicians struggled to deal with the threat of nuclear war. |
Donald G. Marshall is a Professor and the Head of the Department of English at the University of Illinois at Chicago. His top 10 events of the 1900's reflect a general historical approach. Professor Marshall emphasizes the impact of technology on the century and points out one chilling effect : "The fear that humankind's highest scientific achievements will destroy us becomes very real." |