Science : A Four Thousand Year History

Fara, Patricia (

ISBN 10: 0199580278 / ISBN 13: 9780199580279

Published by Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 2010

About this Item

Former library copy. Pages intact with possible writing/highlighting. Binding strong with minor wear. Dust jackets/supplements may not be included. Includes library markings. Stock photo provided. Product includes identifying sticker. Better World Books: Buy Books. Do Good.

Seller Inventory # 334453-6

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Science : A Four Thousand Year History
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, Incorporated
• Publication Date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0199580278
• ISBN 13: 9780199580279
• Binding: Soft cover
• Edition: 1st Edition.
• Condition: Very Good
• Weight: 1.173 pounds

About this title

Synopsis

In Science, Patricia Fara rewrites science's past to provide new ways of understanding and questioning our modern technological society. Sweeping through the centuries from ancient Babylon right up to the latest hi tech experiments in genetics and particle physics, Fara's book also ranges internationally, challenging notions of European superiority by emphasizing the importance of scientific projects based around the world, including revealing discussions of China and the Islamic Empire alongside the more familiar stories about Copernicus's sun centered astronomy, Newton's gravity, and Darwin's theory of evolution.

We see for instance how Muslim leaders encouraged science by building massive libraries, hospitals, and astronomical observatories and we rediscover the significance of medieval Europe long overlooked where, surprisingly, religious institutions ensured science's survival, as the learning preserved in monasteries was subsequently developed in new and unique institutions: universities. Instead of focussing on esoteric experiments and abstract theories, she explains how science belongs to the practical world of war, politics, and business. And rather than glorifying scientists as idealized heroes, she tells true stories about real people men (and some women) who needed to earn their living, who made mistakes, and who trampled down their rivals.

About the Author

Patricia Fara lectures in the History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Cambridge and is the Senior Tutor of Clare College. She is the author of numerous books, including Fatal Attraction: Magnetic Mysteries of the Enlightenment and Newton: The Making of Genius. Her writing has appeared in New Scientist, Nature, The Times, and New Statesman, and she writes a regular column for Endeavour.