The Metaphysical Foundations of Modern Physical Science: The Scientific Thinking of Copernicas, Galileo, Newton and Their Contemporaries

Edwin Arthur Burtt's important study of the philosophical and metaphysical assumptions underlying the rise of modern physical science. Burtt examines the transformation from the medieval conception of the universe to the modern scientific worldview through the work of Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Descartes, Hobbes, Gilbert, Boyle, Newton, and their contemporaries. Originally issued in this revised form as Doubleday Anchor Book A41, the work combines intellectual history with philosophy of science, examining not simply the discoveries of the Scientific Revolution but the assumptions about matter, motion, space, causality, and man's place in the universe that accompanied them. Condition: Good. Illustrated wrappers show moderate rubbing, scuffing, scratches, and edge wear, with wear and small abrasions at the corners and extremities. Small rubbed/abraded area near the upper right portion of the front cover and additional surface wear along the black portions of the design. Rear wrapper has rubbing, edge wear, and a noticeable diagonal surface scratch. Binding remains intact. Pages show age toning consistent with the publication. Interior pages examined appear generally clean. Please refer to photographs for condition. An enduring work in the history and philosophy of science, particularly relevant to the study of the Scientific Revolution and the philosophical development of early modern science. Topics and figures include Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Descartes, Hobbes, Boyle, Newton, metaphysics, scientific method, astronomy, physics, and intellectual history. Book will be carefully packed and protected for shipment. USPS Media Mail available for domestic orders. Returns accepted in accordance with AbeBooks' 30-day return policy. SCI 2b.