Scientific Revolution: A Very Short...
Wishlist
The sixteenth and seventeenth centuries witnessed such fervent investigations of the natural world that the period has been called the 'Scientific Revolution.' New ideas and disco…
Book Summary
Lawrence M. Principe's 'Scientific Revolution: A Very Short Introduction' offers a concise, myth-busting tour of the sixteenth- and seventeenth-century transformations in astronomy, alchemy, medicine, and physics. Rather than a parade of heroes, it presents a broad cast of thinkers and workers driven by religion, profit, and curiosity, showing how they remade knowledge and themselves. Ideal for students and general readers seeking an accessible, historically grounded overview.
This book is not available
Store  |
Condition |
Deals & Coupons | Price |
Est. Shipping |
Total |
Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry we could not find any result for “9780199567416” | ||||||
About Scientific Revolution: A Very Short...
In this Very Short Introduction, Lawrence M. Principe dismantles popular myths about the Scientific Revolution by presenting it as a messy, collaborative, and deeply contextual enterprise. He explores developments across the sciences of the stars (astronomy, astrology, cosmology), the earth (geography, geology, hydraulics), matter and motion (alchemy, chemistry, physics), and life (medicine, anatomy, zoology). Rather than focusing solely on Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton, Principe foregrounds lesser-known artisans, alchemists, and natural philosophers whose practical and intellectual work reshaped the world. He emphasizes the motivations—religious devotion, practical need, fame, profit, and sheer curiosity—that drove these investigations. The narrative is told from the historical actors' perspectives, explaining their reasoning and context, and showing how explanatory systems were built, discarded, and rebuilt. This slim volume provides a nuanced, readable synthesis of a pivotal period in the history of science.
Who should read Scientific Revolution: A Very Short...?
This book is ideal for undergraduate students in history, history of science, or philosophy of science seeking a concise, authoritative overview. General readers curious about how modern science emerged will appreciate its accessible style and myth-busting approach. Teachers and educators looking for a reliable, short text to supplement courses will find it valuable. It also suits professionals in scientific fields who want historical context for their work, and anyone interested in the interplay of religion, culture, and knowledge-making in early modern Europe.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Concise and accessible introduction to a complex historical period
- ✓ Dispels common myths and oversimplifications about the Scientific Revolution
- ✓ Covers a wide range of sciences, including alchemy, astrology, and medicine
- ✓ Emphasizes historical context and the motivations of historical actors
- ✓ Written by a leading expert in the field, Lawrence M. Principe
Cons
- ✗ Very short format may leave some topics underdeveloped for advanced readers
- ✗ Lacks deep coverage of non-Western scientific traditions
- ✗ Some readers may find the focus on lesser-known figures less engaging than heroic narratives
- ✗ Assumes basic familiarity with early modern history
- ✗ No illustrations or diagrams to aid understanding of technical concepts
Similar books
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for someone with no background in science?
Yes, it is written for a general audience and explains concepts clearly without assuming prior scientific knowledge.
Does it focus only on famous figures like Galileo and Newton?
No, it deliberately includes lesser-known artisans, alchemists, and natural philosophers to give a fuller picture.
How does it address the relationship between science and religion?
It shows how religious devotion motivated many investigators, challenging the idea of an inevitable conflict between science and religion.
Is this part of the Very Short Introductions series?
Yes, it is one of the many concise, expert-authored volumes in Oxford University Press's Very Short Introductions series.
Will this help me with a history of science course?
Absolutely. It provides a solid, up-to-date overview that is often recommended as a supplemental text in undergraduate courses.
At Windsorbooks, we compare prices from trusted sellers so you can buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the best total price — shipping included.
As an Amazon Associate, Windsorbooks.com may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.