The physics classroom is as much a laboratory for scientific inquiry as it is a forum for philosophical exploration. In a unique approach for Teacher Appreciation Week, Mr. Baughman, a physics teacher at Emerson, escapes the traditional confines of the classroom and explores various ideas and pieces of wisdom which he uses to discover more about himself and his teaching.
Mr. Baughman’s understanding and enthusiasm for physics can be derived from two subjects. These areas of physics appeal to him by not only bearing incredible depth, but by exhibiting arcane comprehensive perspectives on the most foundational aspects of the natural world.
“The most incredible subjects in physics are either modern physics or the intro to quantum mechanics because they give you a very good understanding of the world at a very microscopic level,” Baughman said.
Baughman reflects on his experiences as a modern physics teacher and previous high school student and finds that there has been significant changes in student engagement and the dynamics of the classroom since his own school days.
“Nowadays, things are a lot more collaborative than things were when I was in high school, and there is a lot more ability for creativity and freedom in learning,” Baughman said.
Baughman’s beliefs do not only follow the confines of the scientific universe, but the vast landscape of wisdom and philosophy. He holds many ideologies close when it comes to navigating the problems often associated with daily life, however there is one philosophy that he believes is the most infallible.
“The most important skill someone can have is the ability to logically analyze a problem without allowing emotion to become a handicap to your decision,” Baughman said.
Amid his reflecting on his past and his wisdom, Baughman imagines the kind of advice he wishes he could offer to his less experienced high school self if he were given the opportunity.
“I’d tell him that one test is not that big of a deal,” Baughman said. “Life will move on.”
Mr. Baughman furthers his reflections by entertaining the concept of boundless potential and the possession of infinite resources, knowledge, and time at his disposal. His imagination is driven towards the creation of a concept embedded in the world of theoretical physics.
“I would create something along the lines of a teleportation device,” Baughman said.
Theoretical physics are also a prominent theme in the Adult Swim show, “Rick and Morty”, which Baughman appreciates for its nuanced and complex narratives that intertwine together both science and philosophical queries. The show’s lead character, Rick, has a nihilistic outlook, which is deftly woven into his characterization. Baughman highly regards this characterization, seeing Rick as a figure that symbolizes intelligence and creativity.
“Rick operates as the most important and intelligent being in the universe. If someone is able to understand and appreciate this show, they are likely of an above average intelligence,” Baughman said.
In conclusion of Mr. Baughman’s insights on his own intelligence and advice, when pondering a final chapter to his day, Mr. Baughman imagines a scenario where he is faced with only one hour left to live. In this situation, he is unable to be with or contact friends or family, so his choice of how he’d spend this hour is both simple and profound.
“I would go on a joy-ride through the mountains in my car and enjoy my last few moments on earth,” Baughman said. This vision of serenity shows his appreciation for nature and his perspective on life—A journey that’s filled with discovery, reflection on oneself, and an undeniable curiosity about the universe.
