Cambridge History of Science: Volume 1, Ancient Science

This volume in the Cambridge History of Science series covers the history of science, medicine, and mathematics in the Old World in antiquity, offering a comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of the subject.

Format: Hardback
Length: 660 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2018
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This remarkable volume in the esteemed Cambridge History of Science series is entirely dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of science, medicine, and mathematics in the ancient world. Carefully organized by topic and culture, the collection of essays penned by renowned scholars presents the most comprehensive and timely account of ancient science currently accessible. Through their collective efforts, these esteemed authors unveil the remarkable diversity of goals, contexts, and achievements in the pursuit of nature's mysteries across Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and India. With an overarching objective of presenting a balanced and inclusive portrayal of the ancient world, contributors delve into the realms of scientific, medical, and mathematical learning within the cultures intertwined with the ancient civilization.

The ancient world, a time of immense cultural, intellectual, and scientific flourishing, holds a captivating allure. From the bustling cities of Mesopotamia to the majestic pyramids of Egypt, from the philosophical gardens of Greece to the architectural wonders of Rome, and from the bustling markets of China to the intricate mathematics of India, this era witnessed the birth of remarkable civilizations and the development of profound knowledge systems.

In this volume, we embark on a journey through time, delving into the history of science, medicine, and mathematics in the ancient world. We explore the contributions of ancient scholars, their discoveries, and their methodologies, shedding light on the remarkable strides they made in understanding the natural world.

The essays in this collection are written by distinguished scholars who have dedicated their lives to the study of ancient science. Each essay offers a unique perspective, drawing upon a wealth of research and expertise to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the subject matter. The authors meticulously analyze the historical, cultural, and social contexts in which scientific, medical, and mathematical learning flourished, shedding light on the complex interplay between these disciplines and the broader society.

One of the key themes that emerge from the essays is the diversity of goals and contexts in which scientific, medical, and mathematical learning occurred in the ancient world. The ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and India each had their own unique perspectives and approaches to the study of nature. From the pursuit of practical knowledge for agriculture and medicine to the exploration of philosophical questions about the nature of reality, these civilizations sought to unravel the mysteries of the universe and improve the lives of their inhabitants.

Another notable aspect of the essays is the consideration of scientific, medical, and mathematical learning within the broader cultural context. The authors recognize that these disciplines were not isolated from other aspects of life but were deeply intertwined with religious beliefs, social structures, and artistic traditions. They explore how scientific discoveries and innovations were influenced by religious beliefs, how medical practices were shaped by cultural norms, and how mathematical concepts were used to explain natural phenomena and shape artistic expression.

The essays also highlight the contributions of women and marginalized communities to the study of science, medicine, and mathematics in the ancient world. Despite the historical barriers and societal restrictions, many women and individuals from marginalized backgrounds made significant contributions to these fields. The authors explore the role of women as physicians, scientists, and mathematicians, as well as the challenges and barriers they faced in pursuing their intellectual pursuits.

In conclusion, this volume in the Cambridge History of Science series offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the history of science, medicine, and mathematics in the ancient world. Through the essays of distinguished scholars, we gain a deeper understanding of the diverse goals, contexts, and accomplishments in the study of nature across Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and India. The volume provides a balanced and inclusive treatment of the ancient world, highlighting the contributions of women and marginalized communities and shedding light on the complex interplay between scientific, medical, and mathematical learning and the broader cultural context.

This remarkable journey through time reminds us of the enduring legacy of the ancient world and the profound impact that their scientific, medical, and mathematical achievements have had on our modern world. It serves as a testament to the human capacity for innovation, creativity, and intellectual curiosity, and encourages us to continue exploring the mysteries of the universe and shaping a better future for ourselves and future generations.

Weight: 1074g
Dimension: 165 x 238 x 48 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780521571623