Galileo Galilei's "Two New Sciences": for Modern Readers

This book aims to make Galileo Galilei's masterpiece Discourses and Mathematical Demonstrations Relating to Two New Sciences accessible to the modern reader by refashioning the work in today's language and including translations of the original geometrical figures into algebraic formulae. It also addresses the mindset and language differences between Galilei and his contemporaries and the countless historical, philosophical, geometrical, and linguistic references he made.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 163 pages
Publication date: 07 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book aims to make Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) accessible to the modern reader by refashioning the great scientist's masterpiece, Discourses and Mathematical Demonstrations Relating to Two New Sciences, in today's language. Galileo Galilei stands as one of the most important figures in history, not simply for his achievements in astronomy, physics, and engineering and for revolutionizing science and the scientific method in general, but also for the role that he played in the (still ongoing) drama concerning entrenched power and its desire to stifle any knowledge that may threaten it. Therefore, it is important that today's readers come to understand and appreciate what Galilei accomplished and wrote. But the mindset that shapes how we see the world today is quite different from the mindset -- and language -- of Galilei and his contemporaries. Another obstacle to a full understanding of Galilei's writings is posed by the countless historical, philosophical, geometrical, and linguistic references he made, along with his often florid prose, with its blend of Italian and Latin. De Angelis' new rendition of the work includes translations of the original geometrical figures into algebraic formulae in modern notation and allows the non-specialist reader to follow the thread of Galileo's thought in a way that was barely possible until now.

Galileo Galilei, a towering figure in history, stands as a beacon of knowledge and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on astronomy, physics, and engineering. His groundbreaking discoveries and revolutionary approaches to science not only transformed the field but also paved the way for future generations of scientists. Galileo's impact extends beyond his scientific contributions, as he played a pivotal role in the ongoing struggle against entrenched power and its relentless quest to suppress knowledge that dared to challenge its authority. Understanding and appreciating Galileo's achievements and writings is of paramount importance, as they shed light on the transformative power of curiosity, intellectual courage, and the pursuit of truth. However, the mindset that shapes our world today differs significantly from the mindset and language of Galilei and his contemporaries. The intricate web of historical, philosophical, geometrical, and linguistic references in his works, coupled with his often florid prose, presents a formidable challenge to modern readers seeking to delve into his profound thoughts. De Angelis' remarkable rendition of Galileo's masterpiece, Discourses and Mathematical Demonstrations Relating to Two New Sciences, seeks to bridge this gap by offering a fresh perspective. Through meticulous translations and the inclusion of algebraic formulae in modern notation, De Angelis enables non-specialist readers to follow the intricate thread of Galileo's thought, offering a deeper understanding of his ideas and discoveries. This groundbreaking approach allows us to reconnect with the brilliance of Galileo and his profound contributions to the world of science.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030719548
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021