The Pursuit of Science in Revolutionary America 1735-1789

Description: From the publisher:Presents an integrated discussion of the character of science in colonial America, stressing the manner in which it was organized, supported, and used, and assessing the changes made in this pattern during the American Revolution and the early national period. This distinguished study brings to light and interprets thoughtfully a vast fund of information on the scientific interests and contributions of the revolutionary generation. It presents an integrated discussion of the character of science in colonial America. From the author:AS EARLY AS 1743, Benjamin Franklin gave voice to exalted aspiration for American achievement in science. He announced: “The first drudgery of settling new colonies which confines the attention of people to mere necessaries is now pretty well over; and there are many in every province in circumstances that set them at ease, and afford leisure to cultivate the finer arts and improve the common stock of knowledge.” He went on to sketch a plan for the cooperative promotion of science on an intercolonial basis. In this, he demonstrated a fine appreciation of one of the noblest dreams of the Enlightenment —the dream that man by studied effort could unlock the secrets of nature and apply them to increase his power “over matter, and multiply the conveniences or pleasures of life.” Franklin hoped that America was sufficiently mature to contribute to the advancement of science; he was convinced that the promotion of science would yield great practical benefits. Certainly more fundamental than enthusiasm was the question of the ability and willingness of the Americans to support scientific work. On the one hand, the material well-being of the Americans was remarkable and it was clear that the average American had more leisure in his day the the average European. On the other hand, both wealth and leisure were so widely distributed that there were only a few to act in the capacity of patrons even if they would. it was easy enough to ask for scientific work from the Harvard professor of mathematics and natural philosophy but where else were the men to be found to fulfill the scientific ideals of the Enlightenment? Storage: Brodart book covers, no sunlight, humidity and temperature controlled. Shipping:USPS Media Mail is the most affordable for domestic orders, however, you may contact us for a different type of shipping with USPS or FedEx. For international orders, we use eBay Global Shipping. Before purchasing:Please feel free to ask questions and request any additional photos. We want you to be very happy with your purchase. Code:E-B(G)MCD

Price: 450 USD

Location: Valencia, California

End Time: 2024-12-21T00:11:45.000Z

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