Description
The early modern period, from roughly 1400 to 1800, experienced a radical transformation in Europeans’ understanding of the natural world. We explore these changes through a series of key moments in the history of early modern science, including the trial of Galileo, Newton’s experiments on light and gravity, Hooke’s studies with the microscope, and the creation of the first map of India. The module examines these episodes through critical perspectives developed recently by historians of science. These include studies of patronage; the place of magic and alchemy in science; the role of collecting and museums in the development of science; relations between science and art; and the connections between early modern science and religion. We also pay attention to the value of STS approaches for better understanding early modern science by examining issues of trust, gender, science as practice and culture, science and social order, and the public understanding of science. Using ideas from there approaches transforms our understanding of science in the early modern period.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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