In 'The Principia,' Isaac Newton lays the foundation of classical mechanics, unveiling the laws of motion and universal gravitation that govern the cosmos. This groundbreaking work not only revolutionized science in the 17th century but also transformed humanity's understanding of the universe. Newton's meticulous observations and mathematical rigor challenge readers to rethink their perceptions of force, motion, and the nature of reality. As you delve into this masterpiece, discover how one man's quest for knowledge reshaped the destiny of science. What revelations might you uncover about the principles that govern our world?
By Isaac Newton, I. Bernard Cohen
Published: 1999
"If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants."
Presents Newton's unifying idea of gravitation and explains how he converted physics from a science of explanation into a general mathematical system.
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Isaac Newton (1643-1727) was an English mathematician, physicist, astronomer, and author, widely recognized as one of the most influential scientists of all time. His notable works include 'Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica' (1687), in which he formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation, and 'Opticks' (1704), a groundbreaking work on the nature of light and color. Newton's writing style is characterized by its rigorous mathematical precision and clarity, blending empirical observation with theoretical insights. His contributions laid the foundation for classical mechanics and scientific methodology, establishing a paradigm that would dominate physics for centuries.
I. Bernard Cohen is a distinguished author and historian, renowned for his significant contributions to the study of the history of science and technology. He is best known for his works such as 'The Scientific Revolution: A Historiographical Inquiry' and 'The Collapse of the Scientific Method.' Cohen's writing is characterized by its meticulous research, clarity, and a deep understanding of the interplay between historical context and scientific development. His scholarship has had a lasting impact on the field, making him a pivotal figure in the exploration of how scientific thought evolved.
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“If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”
The Principia
By Isaac Newton, I. Bernard Cohen
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