First published in 1989, this dictionary of the whole field of the physical sciences is an invaluable guide through the changing terminology and practices of scientific research. Arranged alphabetically, it traces how the meaning of scientific terms have changed over time. It covers a wide range of topics including
voyages, observations, magnetism and
pendulums, and central subjects such as
atom, valency and
energy. There are also entries on more abstract terms such as
hypothesis, theory, induction, deduction, falsification and
paradigm, emphasizing that while science is more than ‘organized common sense’ it is not completely different from other activities. Science’s lack of innocence is also recognized in headings like
pollution and
weapons.
This book will be a useful resource to students interested in the history of science.
