The Invention of Humboldt: On the Geopolitics of Knowledge

The Invention of Humboldt is a collection of essays by leading scholars of the Hispanic world that challenges myths about Alexander von Humboldt and his world. It demonstrates that Humboldt's opus and practice were largely derivative of the knowledge communities and archives of the Hispanic world, and that he was not a solitary "adventurer and "hero of science" but the beneficiary of Iberian natural science and globalization. His anthropological views of the Americas were Orientalist and historicist, and less enlightened than those of his Creole contemporaries. The book will reshape the landscape of Humboldt scholarship and is essential reading for those interested in Alexander von Humboldt, the Hispanic American enlightenment, and the global history of science and knowledge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Invention of Humboldt is a groundbreaking collection of essays by esteemed scholars of the Hispanic world, challenging and dismantling numerous myths surrounding Alexander von Humboldt and his world. Instead of simply following in Humboldt's footsteps, this book presents a fresh and innovative perspective on post-Humboldtian Humboldt studies, focusing on the archaeology of all that lies buried beneath the Barons epistemological footprint. Contrary to the prevalent portrayal of Humboldt as a solitary "adventurer and 'hero of science' surrounded by the wonders of the New World, The Invention of Humboldt reveals that Humboldt's opus and practice were largely influenced by the knowledge communities and archives of the Hispanic world. While Humboldtian writing has established a powerful cult that obscures the origins of his knowledge and practice, it is important to recognize that Humboldt did not "invent nature" or pioneer global science. Rather, he benefited from the rich natural science traditions of Iberia and the broader globalizing forces of his time. Moreover, Humboldt's anthropological views of the Americas were characterized by Orientalist and historicist tendencies, which, in many respects, were less enlightened than those of his Creole contemporaries.

This book will revolutionize the field of Humboldt scholarship, offering essential insights for anyone interested in Alexander von Humboldt, the Hispanic American enlightenment, and the global history of science and knowledge. Its comprehensive analysis and thoughtful arguments will deepen our understanding of Humboldt's legacy and his place in the broader historical context.

Weight: 790g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032139173