Exploring distinctive practices in the artisanal, mercantile, and governmental sites of London, Metropolitan Science offers a new perspective on the development of a scientific culture between the years 1600-1800.
Beginning with the demographics of London in the 17th and 18th centuries, including its attraction of migrants, importance as a centre of empire, and the role of its institutions in government, the authors analyse how and why London was a unique site of scientific activity. Through the use of case studies, such as the Tower of London's Royal Mint, and the Livery Company Halls, this book examines the city's sites of exchange for knowledge and practice, and highlights the importance of both public and private spaces.
With exploration of London's military and colonial history, the authors acknowledge how its port and maritime trade were not only central to growth and protection, but also facilitated the organisation, assessment, valuation, and pursuit of knowledge in the city. Ultimately, this book demonstrates that London corporations produced unique knowledge communities that drew on networks across the city and beyond, and uses a variety of spatial and material approaches to reveal the use, representation, and exchange of practice in these collective settings.
Arvustused
[ Metropolitan Science] is truly excellent and I cant really recommend it enough, not only for those interested in the history of science, but to all those who are interested in the history of London and Britain during the two centuries that the book covers. * The Renaissance Mathematicus *
Muu info
This book explores distinctive practices in the artisanal, mercantile, and governmental sites of London, and offers a new perspective on the development of a scientific culture between the years 1600-1800.
Introduction
1. Sites of Exchange and Objects of Knowledge in Early Modern London
2. The Tower of London and the Royal Mint: Technical Knowledge, Experiment
and Secrecy
3. The Ordnance Office at the Tower and Woolwich: Trial, Manufacture and
Mathematics
4. Livery Company Halls: Production and Regulation
5. The Trinity House on Water Lane: Experience and Expertise
6. East India House: Enterprise and Authority
Conclusion
Index
Rebekah Higgitt is Principal Curator of Science at National Museums Scotland, UK.
Jasmine Kilburn-Toppin is Lecturer in Early Modern History at Cardiff University, UK.
Noah Moxham is a former postdoctoral researcher at the University of Kent, UK.
