John Ziman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Ziman
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| Born | 16 May 1925 Cambridge, England
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| Died | 2 January 2005 (aged 79) |
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| Awards | Fellow of the Royal Society (1967) |
| Scientific career | |
| Institutions | University of Bristol, University of Oxford, Victoria University of Wellington, University of Cambridge |
John Michael Ziman (born May 16, 1925 – died January 2, 2005) was a smart scientist from New Zealand and Britain. He was a physicist, which means he studied how matter and energy work. He also believed in Humanism, which is a way of thinking that focuses on human values and reason.
John Ziman was especially interested in something called condensed matter physics. This is a part of physics that looks at how materials like solids and liquids behave. Besides being a scientist, he was also a great teacher and author. He often spoke about science to the public.
Early Life and Education
John Ziman was born in Cambridge, England, in 1925. His parents were Solomon Netheim Ziman and Nellie Frances Gaster. When John was just a baby, his family moved to New Zealand.
He went to Hamilton High School for his early education. Later, he studied at Victoria University College. He earned his PhD degree from Balliol College, Oxford in England. A PhD is a very high university degree.
Scientific Work
John Ziman started his research at the University of Cambridge. He studied the theory of electrons in liquid metals. Electrons are tiny particles that are part of atoms.
In 1964, he became a professor at the University of Bristol. He taught theoretical physics. This is a branch of physics that uses math and models to explain how the universe works. While at Bristol, he wrote an important book called Elements Of Advanced Quantum Theory. This book helped explain complex ideas about how tiny particles behave.
Philosophy of Science
Over time, John Ziman became very interested in the philosophy of science. This field explores big questions about science. For example, it asks how science works and what its purpose is.
He believed that science is not just about facts and experiments. He thought it also has a strong social side. He wrote many essays and books about how scientists have a responsibility to society.
Personal Life
John Ziman was married twice. First, he married Rosemary Dixon in 1951. Later, he married Joan Solomon. He had four children. He passed away on January 2, 2005.
