Lynn Thorndike History Of Magic And Experimental Science
When it comes to the history of science and magic, one name that stands out is Lynn Thorndike. He was an American historian of science and a renowned authority on the history of science and magic. He was born on July 24, 1882, in Lynn, Massachusetts, and passed away on December 28, 1965, in New York City. His work on the history of science and magic was significant and helped shape our understanding of these fields.
Early Life and Education
Lynn Thorndike was born in Lynn, Massachusetts, to Abbie May and James Thorndike. His father was a school principal, and his mother was a schoolteacher. Lynn Thorndike attended Harvard University, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1907. He went on to study at Columbia University, where he received his Master of Arts degree in 1908 and his Ph.D. in 1912.
Early Career
After completing his Ph.D., Lynn Thorndike began his teaching career at Northwestern University. In 1917, he joined the faculty of Columbia University, where he remained until his retirement in 1950. He was also a visiting professor at the University of Wisconsin, the University of Chicago, and Harvard University.
During his early career, Lynn Thorndike focused on the history of medieval science and technology. He wrote several books on the subject, including "The History of Magic and Experimental Science" and "A History of Medieval Europe." He also contributed numerous articles to scholarly journals on the history of science and magic.
The History of Magic and Experimental Science
Lynn Thorndike's most significant contribution to the field of history of science and magic is his eight-volume work "The History of Magic and Experimental Science." The first volume of the series was published in 1923, and the last volume was published in 1958.
The book is a comprehensive history of the development of scientific thought and experimentation from ancient times to the 17th century. It covers a wide range of topics, including alchemy, astrology, natural philosophy, and medicine. The book is considered a classic in the field and has been widely praised for its scholarship and readability.
Legacy
Lynn Thorndike's work on the history of science and magic has had a profound impact on our understanding of these fields. His scholarship was meticulous, and his writing was clear and engaging. His work has been widely cited and has influenced generations of historians of science and magic.
In recognition of his contributions to the field, Lynn Thorndike was awarded several honors, including the George Sarton Medal, the highest honor awarded by the History of Science Society. He was also elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the American Philosophical Society.
Conclusion
Lynn Thorndike was a pioneer in the field of history of science and magic. His work on "The History of Magic and Experimental Science" is a classic in the field and has had a profound impact on our understanding of these fields. His scholarship and writing were of the highest quality, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of historians of science and magic.