Chapter 1: The Prelude to a Historic Meeting

Richard Feynman once expressed, “The moment I start to think about Physics, nothing else occupies my mind.” This sentiment captures the essence of his dedication to the field.

Richard Feynman (Left) and Albert Einstein (Right). Wikimedia Commons Images.

Albert Einstein is regarded as one of the most influential physicists in history, renowned for his groundbreaking theories of relativity. His work on gravitation, time, and space fundamentally altered our perception of the universe. Additionally, Einstein was instrumental in the development of modern quantum mechanics, collaborating with other prominent figures like Max Planck.

On the other hand, Richard Feynman is celebrated as an exceptional science educator. His significant contributions include the Feynman diagrams, which visually represent interactions between particles and light, as well as his pioneering research in quantum electrodynamics and superfluidity in supercooled liquid helium. Feynman's vibrant personality and engaging teaching style earned him acclaim at institutions such as Princeton, Cornell, and CalTech.

In this narrative, I recount the first encounter between Feynman and Einstein, as vividly depicted in Feynman's autobiography, Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!

During his undergraduate studies at Princeton, Feynman worked under the guidance of the esteemed physicist John Archibald Wheeler, who famously coined the terms "black hole" and "wormhole." One day, while tackling a challenging physics problem related to energy loss in excited electrons, Feynman struggled until Wheeler stepped in to assist. While Feynman needed to perform the calculations, Wheeler could intuitively grasp the solutions.

They then delved into another complex issue in quantum electrodynamics concerning the self-action of electrons. Feynman proposed that if they could address the problem from a classical perspective, it might aid their understanding of modern quantum theory. Intrigued, Wheeler encouraged Feynman to present a seminar on the topic—his first technical seminar at Princeton. With arrangements made by Wheeler and Eugene Wigner, they aimed to attract leading physicists to this potentially captivating discussion.

Initially, Wigner invited prominent astronomer Henry Norris Russell, followed by the renowned mathematician John von Neumann. Feynman grew increasingly anxious when he learned that physicist Wolfgang Pauli would attend. However, he felt utterly overwhelmed when Wigner revealed that Albert Einstein had also been invited due to the intriguing subject matter.

Wolfgang Pauli writing equations on a blackboard, 1953. Image Copyright Keystone Photopress, Zurich.

Initially terrified, Feynman found solace when Wheeler assured him he would field questions during the seminar. On the day of the event, Feynman began writing equations on the blackboard, only to be greeted by Einstein's entrance, who casually asked, "Hello, I’m coming to your seminar. But first where’s the tea?"

This marked Feynman's first interaction with Einstein. As the seminar commenced, Feynman's nerves momentarily resurfaced in the presence of such esteemed intellects—whom he referred to as "monster minds." Yet, as he immersed himself in the subject matter, he found his fear dissipating, stating, “The moment I start to think about Physics, and have to concentrate on what I’m explaining, nothing else occupies my mind. I’m completely immune to being nervous.”

Once the seminar concluded, it was time for questions. To Feynman's surprise, Wolfgang Pauli was the first to express skepticism regarding Feynman's theory. When asked for Einstein's thoughts, the legendary physicist remarked, “The only difficulty that I would find is in the corresponding theory for gravitational interaction. Since we do not have a great deal of experimental evidence, I’m absolutely not sure of the correct gravitational theory.”

In retrospect, Feynman expressed gratitude toward Pauli for his critical inquiry, which led to insightful discussions between them in the campus library after the seminar. Feynman felt fortunate to have avoided answering questions during the seminar that he hadn’t fully listened to.

“Einstein was a giant. His head was in the clouds, but his feet were on the ground. But those of us who are not that tall have to choose!” — Richard Feynman, as quoted in Collective Electrodynamics: Quantum Foundations of Electromagnetism by Carver Mead.

Einstein and Pauli captured together by Paul Ehrenfest in Leiden, 1926.

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Chapter 2: The Legacy of Their Meeting

The anecdote of Albert Einstein and Richard Feynman is a well-known story in the world of physics, showcasing their unique perspectives and contributions.

The rivalry and camaraderie between Albert Einstein and Richard Feynman is explored in this engaging video, highlighting their remarkable legacies in physics.