THE MISSION

For physicists, the rapid changes and discoveries that revolutionized science after World War II were both stimulating and frustrating. The opportunity to ponder, to reason, to visualize and to exchange thoughts the essentials of pure science sometimes fell victim to the accelerated pace of research.

Linked to the scientific challenges were the challenges of a whole new way of working. What had once been a few well defined areas of expertise split into many sub-fields with their own highly specific bodies of literature. For example, particle physics grew out of nuclear physics during the 50s and the 60s; then, in the 80s, cosmology the science of the large and particle physics the science of the small found common ground in the study of the earliest moments of the universe.

Physicists experienced a new sense of urgency and devoted every spare moment to intensive conferences and workshops in their special fields. Finding time for quiet reflection became more and more of a challenge.

The demands of teaching and administration often interfered with research and scientific thought. And many who were in the mainstream of physics at their graduate universities moved on to positions at smaller institutions where it was difficult to stay informed about new and important trends.

Intensely aware of the impact of technological discoveries on the public, physicists also worried that there was no appropriate forum for discussing these rising contemporary concerns.

It was in response to these challenges that The Aspen Center for Physics was created. Here, the essence of the work lies in thought and communication. Often, it takes place on the benches under the trees, in the halls between the offices, on the trails behind the campus or hiking in the surrounding mountains. There are few distractions or responsibilities, few rules or demands. Physicists work at their own speeds and in their own ways: alone or together, at the desk, at the blackboard or in a chair on the lawn. Frequently, a casual, spontaneous discussion gives rise to a new collaboration.

Activities outside the Center are encouraged. Dozens of bicycles fill the racks outside the buildings. Topographical maps cover the lobby walls suggesting hiking locations. The shady streets of Aspen's West End invite long walks. The musicians in the nearby Music Festival Tent fill the air with music. And as the founders anticipated, even while participating in these activities, the physicists continue to exchange ideas, returning refreshed, and eager to immerse themselves once again in their individual research subjects.

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