Horizons: A Global History of Science

A radical retelling of the history of science that foregrounds the scientists erased from history, Horizons by James Poskett explodes the myth that science began in Europe. It highlights the contributions of scientists from Africa, America, Asia, and the Pacific, challenging traditional accounts of science in the West.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

A groundbreaking exploration of the untold story of science, Horizons by James Poskett challenges the conventional narrative of its origins in Europe. Instead, Poskett presents a comprehensive and dynamic account of science's development, highlighting the significant contributions of scientists from diverse regions such as Africa, America, Asia, and the Pacific. Through captivating narratives and in-depth research, Poskett unveils the global nature of science, emphasizing the interconnectedness, competition, cooperation, and conflicts that have shaped its evolution.

In this radical retelling, Poskett debunks the myth that science emerged solely from the brilliance of individual geniuses like Copernicus, Newton, Darwin, and Einstein. Instead, he reveals a complex and multifaceted history, where scientific advancements were the result of a global network of knowledge exchange. The book showcases the remarkable achievements of scientists like Graman Kwasi, the African botanist who discovered a new cure for malaria; Hantaro Nagaoka, the Japanese scientist who first described the structure of the atom; and Zhao Zhongyao, the Chinese physicist who discovered antimatter.

Horizons offers a fresh perspective on the history of science, challenging almost everything we have learned in the West. It sheds light on the overlooked contributions of these lesser-known scientists and provides a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of the field. The book has received widespread acclaim from esteemed authors, reviewers, and readers alike. Jerry Brotton, author of "A History of the World in 12 Maps," praised Poskett's "perspective-shattering" work, stating that it "upends traditional accounts of the history of science." Caroline Sanderson, The Bookseller's Editor's Choice, described Horizons as "remarkable," noting that it "challenges almost everything we know about science in the West." Rebecca Wragg Sykes, author of "Kindred," praised Poskett's ability to deftly blend the achievements of little-known figures into the broader history of science, describing the book as "brimming with clarity." Chris Allnutt, writing for the Financial Times, praised Poskett's "excellent writing style," stating that the book "brings the past to life in a way that is both accessible and engaging."

In conclusion, Horizons by James Poskett is a groundbreaking exploration of the untold story of science. It challenges the conventional narrative of its origins in Europe and presents a comprehensive and dynamic account of science's development. Through captivating narratives and in-depth research, Poskett unveils the global nature of science, highlighting the interconnectedness, competition, cooperation, and conflicts that have shaped its evolution. The book has received widespread acclaim and is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, philosophy, and implications of science.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 196 x 130 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241986264