Retired professor of physics at Princeton University Institute of Advanced Study, Freeman was held in high esteem for his expertise in quantum electrodynamics, condensed-matter physics, statistical mechanics, nuclear engineering, climate studies, astrophysics and biology. Beyond his professional work, he authored several publications focused on the human consequences of science and technology: Disturbing the Universe, Weapons and Hope, Infinite in All Directions, The Sun, Genome and the Internet, The Scientist as Rebel, and A Many-Colored Glass.

In 2000, Freeman was awarded the Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion.