In Science in World History, James Trefil presents a comprehensive, thematic survey of the history of science from its roots in different cultures around the world through to the present day. He explores crucial milestones in scientific development and at the same time examines the enormous social and intellectual changes they initiated.
Opening with a discussion of the key elements of modern scientific enterprise, the book goes on to explore the earliest scientific activities, moving through Greece and Alexandria, science in the Muslim world, and then on to Isaac Newton, atomic theory and the major developments of the nineteenth century. After examining the most recent scientific activities across the world, the book concludes by identifying future directions for the field.
Suitable for introductory courses and ideal for students new to the subject, this concise and lively study reconsiders the history of science from the perspective of world and comparative history.
1.What is Science 2.Astronomy: The First Science 3.Counting 4.Greek and Alexandrian Science 5.Islamic Science 6.The Birth of Modern Science 7.The Newtonian World 8.The Science of Life 9.Physical Sciences in the Twentieth Century 10.Biology in the Twentieth Century 11.The New Internationalization 12.The Frontiers of Science. Epilogue. Index
Biography
James Trefil is Clarence J Robinson Professor of Physics at George Mason University. Author of over 40 books and the recipient of numerous awards, he is renowned for his ability to explain science to non-scientists.
"Trefil is a well-known interpreter of science for the layperson, and achieves that goal very well in this effort. He selects important advances in a number of historical periods and then analyzes specific scientific disciplines... [and] the material is presented in a logical, clear, coherent fashion...Summing Up: Highly Recommended." - D. W. Hill, University of North Texas, CHOICE
