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William Whewell

A Composite Portrait

Simon Schaffer editor Menachem Fisch editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Oxford University Press

Published:21st Feb '91

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William Whewell cover

This collection of essays explores the life and influence of William Whewell, examining his contributions to various fields and their lasting impact.

This collection of essays pays homage to the remarkable Victorian intellectual, William Whewell, whose contributions resonate across various fields such as moral philosophy, mineralogy, architecture, and the politics of education. Whewell was not only a pivotal figure in Victorian intellectual culture but also a trailblazer whose insights influenced the development of physics, engineering, and theology. His work is a testament to the interconnectedness of these disciplines, reflecting a time when the boundaries of knowledge were being redefined.

The essays within this collection delve into the profound impact that William Whewell had on the evolution of scientific knowledge and moral values. Recent scholarly examinations of the sciences in nineteenth-century Britain have underscored Whewell's critical proposals for reforming how we understand these domains. Despite his significant contributions, there has been a lack of comprehensive studies exploring the context and repercussions of his work until now.

This anthology, featuring contributions from leading experts in history, history of science, and philosophy, represents a landmark effort to acknowledge and analyze the legacy of this towering intellectual figure. By doing so, it enriches our comprehension of Victorian intellectual life and its enduring influence on contemporary thought, illuminating the pathways that Whewell forged for future generations.

`both books, and in particular the collection of essays, do pull together what is currently known about Whewell and this can only act as a stimulus to further study' Victorian Studies
`the first time the results have been brought together in this way ... wide-ranging and no more collection of pieces d'occasion' J.W. Burrows, Times Literary Supplement
'this book succeeds like no other in synthesizing the full scope of his diverse historical influence ... This volume is a valuable contribution to the understanding of 19th-century intellectual life and should be acquired by libraries supporting a curriculum in the history and philosophy of science. Level: upper-division undergraduate and up.' L.C. Archie, Lander College, Choice, Nov '91
'well-balanced, readable, and insightful study of Whewell's study of science ... This critical appraisal of Whewell's philosophy of science is highly recommended for all college libraries and is indispensable for history of science programs.' L.C. Archie, Lander College, Choice, Feb '92
'It brings together thirteen accomplished Whewell scholars to explore the context and content of his prodigious life and work. If one wishes to work historically into the Whewell text, one can do no better than begin with Composite Portrait' Don McNally, Pascal Centre, Ontario, History of Science, Volume 25, 1992

ISBN: 9780198249009

Dimensions: 241mm x 163mm x 29mm

Weight: 800g

418 pages