A Culture of Curiosity: Science in the Eighteenth-Century Home

This study investigates the practice of scientific inquiry in the eighteenth-century home, using a wide range of historical sources to show that knowledge production and consumption were integral to domestic life and that the home generated practices that were integral to 'Enlightenment enquiry'.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 25 July 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate realm of scientific inquiry during the eighteenth century, shedding light on its practice within the confines of the genteel household. While historical accounts of science have recognized the significance of the genteel household as a hub for scientific experimentation, they have primarily approached this topic through the biographies of prominent scientists. In contrast, this book employs a diverse array of historical sources, encompassing household accounts, inventories, letters, and print culture, to explore the tools and resources available to early modern householders in their pursuit of knowledge. By examining the home as a site of knowledge production, this study challenges the underappreciated notion that scientific inquiry was solely conducted in specialized laboratories or academic institutions. Instead, it reveals that scientific inquiry was intricately intertwined with various domestic practices, forming a holistic and interconnected aspect of eighteenth-century life.

The study demonstrates that knowledge production and consumption were essential components of domestic life in the eighteenth century. It reveals that the genteel household not only served as a venue for scientific experimentation but also fostered a culture of learning and intellectual inquiry. The home generated practices that were integral to the broader 'Enlightenment enquiry,' contributing to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in the period.

One of the key findings of the study is that scientific inquiry in the eighteenth century was not limited to the realm of the elite or the educated. Rather, it was accessible to a wide range of individuals, including women, servants, and even children. The home provided a nurturing environment for experimentation and learning, where individuals could explore their interests and develop their scientific skills.

Furthermore, the study highlights the role of print culture in facilitating scientific inquiry. Printed materials, such as books, journals, and pamphlets, played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge and stimulating intellectual debate. The availability of these resources allowed householders to access a wealth of information and engage in scientific discussions with peers and experts from around the world.

In conclusion, this study offers a fresh perspective on the practice of scientific inquiry in the eighteenth century by examining its occurrence within the genteel household. It demonstrates that scientific inquiry was not confined to specialized laboratories or academic institutions but was an integral part of everyday domestic life. By exploring the tools and resources available to early modern householders, the study sheds light on the broader cultural and intellectual landscape of the eighteenth century.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 145 x 224 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526153036