This magnificent volume is a sweeping history of scientific discovery and superstition from prehistoric times to the present
Herbert Cohen begins with an examination of humanity's first attempts to understand the natural world through ancient religion; he then traces the evolution of scientific thought across two millennia, considering the significant discoveries as well as the false starts of such pseudosciences as astrology and alchemy. Corben surveys the contributions of both the West and the East, and discusses the great controversies and conflicts pitting religion against science. The book includes chapters on ancient religions and the ways in which their beliefs and ceremonies became essential parts of Christianity; early developments in physics, astronomy, biology, and medicine; the scientific beliefs and theological conflicts of the first Christian millennium, and the contributions of Muslim scientists and physicians during the latter part of that period; the development of the sciences of the 18th and 19th centuries and the ways in which erroneous assumptions stood in the way of progress; how the theory of evolution affected religious dogma; and more. In the final chapter -a lyrical tribute to humanity's passionate search for progress - Corben summarizes the lessons of the past, comparing them to the struggles of the present and hopes for the future.
Herbert C. Corben, now retired, is a theoretical physicist who has worked in both the academic world and in private industry. Notes from his undergraduate course on natural science at Scarborough College, University of Toronto, were expanded in this book.
398 pages
Cloth ISBN 0-87975-683-7
Return to Popular Science List