⑥ Revolutionary Science▪On the politicization of science during the French Revolution
The French Revolution was the culmination of Enlightenment thinking. But rather than celebrating science, the revolutionaries suppressed ide...
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A History of Science
A podcast exploring the cultures, communities, and contexts of scientific progress.
Episodes
6 episodes⑤ The Philosopher’s Study▪On alchemy’s transition into chemistry
In the 16th century, alchemy became a victim of its own success. The more it achieved, the more its reputation suffered. Cheating death. Cur...
④ Between Skin and Bones▪On surgery’s discord with anatomy
In the 16th century, great advances were made in anatomy. Amazingly, this didn’t lead to a single improvement in surgery, which remained cru...
③ Enchanting Numbers▪On computers’ invention as mechanical calculators
Computing began long before the twentieth century. Mechanical calculators ran on cogs, wheels, and steam engines. How would you like a job a...
② Beyond the Edge of the World▪On worldviews in Columbus’ time
Columbus discovers America. But more importantly, he discovers discovery itself. In 1492, Columbus sailed west to prove that the world was r...
① Bloody Beginnings▪On blood transfusion as medical cure-all
Daring 17th century doctors try their hand at blood transfusion. With fatal consequences. Blood. The mere sight of it is enough to make many...