Scientific Method in Ptolemy's Harmonics

by Andrew Barker

Overview

This book examines, for the first time, the scientific procedures devised by Ptolemy (second century AD) for investigating the structures underlying musical melody, a project that he conceived as closely related to astronomy. Ptolemy's account of his methods is unusually explicit, and he pursues them faithfully. By providing an analysis of Ptolemy's sophisticated theoretical apparatus, his strategies for integrating theory with observation, and his meticulous instructions for the design and conduct of experimental tests, the book offers historians of science a new starting-point for wider studies of ancient scientific method.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521028646
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	11/02/2006
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	292
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 8.98(h) x 0.71(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. Reason and perception; 3. Pitch and quantity; 4. The ratios of the concords: (1) the Pythagoreans; 5. The ratios of the concords: (2) Ptolemy's hupotheseis; 6. Critique of Aristoxenian principles and conclusions; 7. Ptolemy on the harmonic divisions of his predecessors; 8. Melodic intervals: hupotheseis, derivations and adjustments; 9. Larger systems: modulations in music and in method; 10. The instruments; 11. The tests; 12. Harmonics in a wider perspective; Bibliography; Indexes.

Editorial Reviews

"For two decades now Andrew Barker has brought to the study of Ancient Greek music and musicology a uniquely philosophical perspective, which he applies very effectively to this current project....There is not one uninteresting page." Classical World

"...an important contribution to a largely unexplored field." Religious Studies Review

"...dedicated students of the ancient musical science and scientific method will probably find it an important contribution to a largely unexplored field." Religious Studies Review

"Beautifully produced and a pleasure to hold." Classical Bulletin

From the Publisher