The Quasi-History of Early Quantum Theory

Abstract

While physics has a rather ahistoric teaching tradition, it is common to include at least anecdotal reference to historical events and actors. These brief remarks on the history are typically distorted. I take issue with the textbook narrative of the historical development of early quantum theory and rectify some of the more severe misrepresentations. This seems to be all the more important, since the history of physics is commonly (and rightly) regarded as a means to foster scientific literacy and a more appropriate understanding of the nature of science (NoS).