What do astrophysics and the world's oldest profession have in common?

Authors: Martin Lopez-Corredoira

(Submitted on 14 Oct 2003 (v1), last revised 18 Apr 2008 (this version, v3))

Abstract: In the present paper I want to tell of my impressions about the world of research in astrophysics, which I know from close observation. I see with certain pessimism the actual state of astrophysics, as well as of other sciences with similar problems. There are many charms in the profession, as many charms as in love, but not when they are in the service of mercantile aims.

Comments: 23 pages (english version) + 24 pages (spanish version). Two new updated footnotes added. Published in the collection of papers "AGAINST THE TIDE". Get a paperback copy at: this http URL or this http URL

Subjects: Astrophysics (astro-ph); Physics and Society (physics.soc-ph)

Journal reference: in: ``Against the Tide. A Critical Review by Scientists of How Physics and Astronomy Get Done'', M. Lopez Corredoira, C. Castro Perelman, Eds., Universal Publishers, Boca Raton (Florida), pp. 145-177 (2008)

Cite as: arXiv:astro-ph/0310368v3

Submission history

From: Mart\'in L\'opez-Corredoira [view email]

[v1] Tue, 14 Oct 2003 15:31:47 GMT (59kb)

[v2] Thu, 16 Oct 2003 13:06:54 GMT (59kb)

[v3] Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:44:09 GMT (61kb)

http://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0310368