Leviathan and the Air-Pump

In Leviathan and the Air-Pump, authors Simon Schaffer and Steven Shapin embark on an intellectual journey that scrutinises the philosophical underpinnings of scientific practice in early modern Europe. This compelling narrative weaves together the historical context of Thomas Hobbes' political theories and Robert Boyle's experiments, illustrating the intricate relationship between knowledge, power, and the pursuit of truth.

The Story

The book juxtaposes Hobbes' vision of a mechanistic world governed by absolute authority against Boyle's empirical investigations, which champion observation and experiment as the cornerstones of scientific knowledge. Schaffer and Shapin meticulously explore how these two monumental figures shaped the discourse surrounding science and governance, leading to profound implications for epistemology and the philosophy of science.

Why Readers Love It

• The authors' engaging prose brings to life the debates of the 17th century, making complex ideas accessible.
• Richly detailed, the narrative encourages readers to reflect on the ongoing tension between scientific inquiry and societal authority.
• The interdisciplinary approach connects history, philosophy, and science, appealing to a broad audience.

Perfect For

This book is ideal for scholars and enthusiasts of European history, philosophy, and the history of science. Readers who appreciated Schaffer’s other works, such as Natural Philosophy and the History of Science, will find Leviathan and the Air-Pump equally enlightening, as it challenges conventional notions of how knowledge is constructed and validated.

“A thought-provoking examination of the interplay between scientific practice and philosophical thought.”