I. Bernard Cohen Book order

Presents Newton's unifying idea of gravitation and explains how he converted physics from a science of explanation into a general mathematical system.

The book explores the foundational instruments and methodologies that shaped early American scientific endeavors. It delves into the significance of various tools used by scientists and inventors, highlighting their impact on the development of scientific practices in the United States. Through an examination of these early tools, the work illustrates the evolution of American science and the innovative spirit that characterized the period.

The exploration of how numbers have influenced various facets of life, including science, governance, and marketing, is at the heart of this work. I. B. Cohen traces the evolution of numerical analysis from ancient practices to its pivotal role during the Scientific Revolution. He highlights the contributions of notable figures like Thomas Jefferson and Florence Nightingale, revealing her as a fervent statistician. This engaging narrative offers a fresh perspective on the significance of statistics in shaping human affairs throughout history.

The book offers a unique interpretation of the revolution that established modern science, focusing on Newton's innovative relationship between abstract mathematics and physical observation. It highlights how Newton's methodology involved constructing a mathematical system that mirrored the physical world, which was then refined through experimentation. Professor Cohen further examines the nature of scientific creativity, proposing that scientific change occurs through transformations of existing ideas, a concept applicable to various scientific disciplines.

The book explores the profound intellectual contributions of early American presidents, highlighting their scientific knowledge and interests. It reveals how Thomas Jefferson comprehended Newton's Principia, Benjamin Franklin's pivotal role in electricity, John Adams' extensive scientific education, and James Madison's integration of scientific references in the Federalist Papers. This examination underscores the critical intersection of science and governance in shaping the foundations of the United States.