The transcript discusses the evolution of cosmology as a distinct field, initially overshadowed by string theory. It highlights the significant discoveries like the universe's acceleration and the Higgs boson, while also noting missed opportunities such as non-gaussianities and gravitational waves. The speaker reflects on past expectations and the current state of cosmology, emphasizing the need for new breakthroughs to invigorate the field.

What was the initial perception of cosmology compared to string theory?

• Cosmology was not considered a field of research at all.

• Cosmology was considered more important than string theory.

• Cosmology was seen as a side field, less important than string theory.

• Cosmology and string theory were considered equally important.

Which discovery was anticipated by researchers during the early stages of cosmology's development?

• The discovery of a new planet

• The discovery of gravitational waves

• The discovery of the Higgs boson

• The discovery of non-gaussianities

What was a major hope for string theory in relation to cosmology?

• To derive inflationary models

• To provide insights into dark matter

• To explain the existence of black holes

• To predict the end of the universe

What was one of the missed opportunities in cosmology mentioned in the transcript?

• The discovery of a new galaxy

• The observation of non-gaussianities

• The measurement of cosmic microwave background

• The detection of new planets

What shift in focus is mentioned in the final section of the transcript?

• From gravitational waves to black holes

• From cosmology to particle physics

• From non-gaussianities to large-scale structure

• From string theory to quantum mechanics