Revolutionizing the Sciences: European Knowledge in Transition, 1500-1700

This third edition of a highly acclaimed book provides a comprehensive overview of the development of scientific thought in early modern Europe, covering key figures such as Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Newton, and Bacon. It explores how the Scientific Revolution happened and why, highlighting Europe's colonial and trade expansion in the 16th and 17th centuries. The book is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students of Early Modern history, European history, history of medicine, history of science and technology, and the history and philosophy of science.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2018
Publisher: Macmillan Education UK

This extensively revised third edition of an award-winning text provides a deep understanding of the development of scientific thought in early modern Europe. Covering key scientific figures such as Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Newton, and Bacon, the book offers a comprehensive overview of the Scientific Revolution and its underlying causes.

By examining Europe's colonial and trade expansion during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, Peter Dear traces the revolution in scientific thought that transformed the natural world from a subject of contemplation to a tool for utilization. This book is an invaluable resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying Early Modern history, European history, history of medicine, history of science and technology, and the history and philosophy of science.

The first edition of this book was honored with the Watson Davis and Helen Miles Davis Prize of the History of Science Society, recognizing its significance in the field. The new edition of this text includes several notable updates:

Expanded Treatment of Alchemy and Associated Craft Activities: The book now provides greater coverage of alchemy and associated craft activities, reflecting ongoing new scholarship in this area.

Enhanced Focus on Geographical Issues: The book emphasizes geographical aspects, particularly in relation to Spain and its New World territories, Eastern Europe, and Islamic territories such as the Ottoman Empire and South and East Asia.

New Material on Science and Religion, Gender, and Class: The text incorporates new scholarship on these themes, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the period.

More Extensive Treatment of the Relationship between Medicine and the Sciences: The book delves into the intricate relationship between medicine and the various sciences, particularly to new natural philosophies that emerged during this time.

Incorporation of New Scholarship Throughout: The text incorporates the latest research and scholarship to ensure its accuracy and relevance.

Chapter Dedicated to Francis Bacon: The book includes a dedicated chapter on Francis Bacon, one of the most influential figures of the Scientific Revolution.

Further Discussion of the Gendered Elements of Natural Philosophy: The book explores the gendered aspects of natural philosophy, shedding light on the contributions of women scientists and philosophers during this period.

New Historiographical Essay: The book includes a new historiographical essay that provides an overview of the current state of research in the field.

In conclusion, this extensively revised third edition of an award-winning text offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the development of scientific thought in early modern Europe. It is an essential resource for students and scholars interested in this period, providing a deep understanding of the Scientific Revolution and its lasting impact on the world.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 234 x 159 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781352003130
Edition number: 3rd ed. 2019