The physics curriculum is usually defined by content but this does not provide students with an authentic experience of the subject. An alternative is that physics is defined more as a way of thinking and this idea is explored in terms of the purposes of physics education, assessment and the relationship of the subject with other disciplines. A number of recommendations are made on how current systems, including examinations and practical work, could be altered to accommodate such an approach and on the best way to offer more challenge to the scientists of the future.