An Original Theory or New Hypothesis of the Universe, Founded Upon the Laws of Nature: And Solving by Mathematical Principles the General Ph誅omena of (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781108073745)

Although his yeoman father is said to have burnt his books to discourage excessive studiousness, Thomas Wright (1711-86) nevertheless acquired considerable knowledge in the fields of mathematics, navigation and astronomy. Later benefitting from the patronage of wealthy families, he also surveyed estates, designed gardens, and tutored aristocrats. He is best known, however, for his contribution to astronomy: this illustrated work of 1750 was his most famous publication. Written in the form of nine letters, the book quotes both poets and scientists in the opening discussion as Wright sets out to fuse, rather than separate, science and religion. Combining his observations of the Milky Way with his theological belief in a universe of perfect order, he notes, among other things, that our galaxy appears to be disc-shaped. While largely ignored by contemporary astronomers, Wright's ideas can be seen as a forerunner to more sophisticated conceptions of our galaxy's configuration.

Author: Thomas Wright
ISBN-10: 1108073743
ISBN-13: 9781108073745
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Language: English
Published: 11/06/2014
Pages: 142
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.57lbs
Size: 10.00h x 7.00w x 0.30d