John F. W. Herschel

Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy (eBook, ePUB)

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

In "Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy," John F. W. Herschel embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the principles and methods that underpin scientific inquiry. Adeptly woven with philosophical reflections, Herschel's prose combines clarity and erudition, serving as a compelling introduction to the emerging field of natural science in the 19th century. The text is marked by its innovative use of examples and systematic organization, reflecting the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and empiricism. Herschel critiques contemporary scientific practices while advocating for a synthesis of observation and theory, contextualizing his discourse within the broader intellectual currents of his time, including the foundational works of Newton and Laplace. John F. W. Herschel, a prominent mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher, was deeply influenced by familial legacies and a rigorous academic environment. The son of the renowned astronomer William Herschel, John inherited a scientific ambition that propelled him to explore the intersections of mathematics, natural philosophy, and the observational sciences. His educational background and experiences as an observer of celestial phenomena inspired his quest to elucidate the methodologies that govern scientific thought, making this work a pivotal contribution to the philosophy of science. This book is an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts of the history of science and philosophy alike, offering insights into the intellectual evolution of natural philosophy. Herschel's meticulous approach fosters a greater understanding of the scientific method, making the work not only relevant for historical contexts but also for contemporary scientific discourse. It is a thought-provoking text that invites readers to ponder the nature of inquiry itself.

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Produktdetails

• Verlag: DigiCat
• Seitenzahl: 261
• Erscheinungstermin: 29. Mai 2022
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 8596547018810
• Artikelnr.: 64130254

Autorenporträt

Sir John Frederick William Herschel, 1st Baronet KH FRS (1792-1871), was an English polymath, mathematician, astronomer, chemist, inventor, and experimental photographer who also did valuable botanical work. The only son of Mary Baldwin and noted astronomer William Herschel, he followed in his father's footsteps both in astronomy and in receiving a knighthood. Herschel's education was extensive and he exhibited early brilliance, graduating from St John's College, Cambridge as Senior Wrangler, the highest mathematical honor, in 1813. His 'Preliminary Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy', published in 1830, serves as an indispensable overview of 19th-century scientific methods and perspectives, reflecting a broad view of natural philosophy as the philosophical and phenomenological study of nature. Herschel's distinction in scientific endeavors earned him the presidency of the Royal Astronomical Society twice. He made significant contributions to photography, investigating color processes, and even coined the term 'photography'. His literary style, especially within 'Preliminary Discourse', is marked by clarity and a didactic intention, intending to guide and inspire future scientific thought. His work remains a key document in the history of science, mapping out the territory for the research and technologies that followed. Herschel's legacy transcends his written work, marked as much by his discoveries and inventions as by his literary contributions to the field of natural philosophy.