George Wilson's Vision of Early Victorian Science and Technology: Unity in Variety

George Wilson was a leading advocate for evangelical science and the role of biology in technology. He developed a unitary vision of Victorian science and technology by drawing upon religion, transcendental natural history, and Baconian philosophy. He was the first Regius Professor of Technology at the University of Edinburgh and the founding Director of the Industrial Museum of Scotland. This book is the first book-length study of Wilson published in the last 160 years and is essential for researchers and scholars interested in Victorian science and technology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

George Wilson was a prominent advocate for evangelical science and the significance of biology in technology. He dedicated his career to developing a unified vision of Victorian science and technology by incorporating elements of religion, transcendental natural history, and Baconian philosophy.

Wilson held the prestigious position of the first Regius Professor of Technology at the University of Edinburgh and played a pivotal role in establishing the Industrial Museum of Scotland (now known as the National Museum of Scotland). He was a prolific lecturer and author, covering a wide range of subjects such as the possibility of life on other planets, the history of science, natural theology, chemistry, and poetry.

His works gained immense popularity, attracting both critical acclaim and a large audience, particularly among women. Charles Dickens, a renowned writer of the time, praised Wilson's lectures, highlighting their significance and appeal. Wilson's lectures drew large crowds, particularly women, who were eager to learn about the remarkable scientific and technological advancements occurring during the first half of the nineteenth century.

Driven by his passion for education and his desire to create a comprehensive understanding of science and technology, Wilson sought to educate the public about these developments. This book, based on Wilson's own writings, represents the first comprehensive study of him published in the past 160 years. It provides valuable insights into the life and work of this remarkable figure, shedding light on his contributions to Victorian science and technology.

For researchers and scholars interested in Victorian science and technology, this book is an invaluable resource. It offers a comprehensive examination of George Wilson's life and work, exploring his ideas, influences, and contributions to the field. It provides a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and intellectual context in which he operated, and sheds light on the broader implications of his ideas for the development of science and technology in the nineteenth century.

In conclusion, George Wilson's life and work represent a significant chapter in the history of science and technology. His advocacy for evangelical science, his integration of religious and philosophical ideas, and his contributions to the development of Victorian science and technology have left a lasting impact. This book provides a valuable resource for researchers and scholars seeking to explore the complexities of Victorian science and technology, and it contributes to our understanding of the broader historical context in which these developments occurred.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032079417