Thomas Wright

Broschiertes Buch

An Original Theory or New Hypothesis of the Universe, Founded Upon the Laws of Nature

And Solving by Mathematical Principles the General Phaenomena

Beschreibung

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.

Autor

I am a professed lover of America's National Park System. I have visited all 418 park units, as of 2018. No matter how large or small a park unit, 20 miles down the road or 5,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean (i.e. Guam), in solitude or with thousands of other visitors, I have enjoyed trekking to all of them. First-hand experience with each park is second to none. Over 250 units have welcomed me for multiple visits. Membership in the National Park Travelers Club was easily predictable. There is nothing like mingling with folks who have a similar interest. The sport of Baseball is close behind on my list of hobbies. I have played, coached, watched, and followed America's Pastime since I was five years old. Meeting and talking with the greats of the game (Mantle, DiMaggio, Williams, Snyder, etc.) over the last three decades, listening to their stories, watching each season's World Series, and enjoying my baseball card collection continue to fuel my enthusiasm. My maternal grandparents attended the first All-Star Game in Chicago, in 1933. How is that for lineage?

Produktdetails

• Verlag: Cambridge University Press
• Seitenzahl: 142
• Erscheinungstermin: 30. September 2014
• Englisch
• Abmessung: 254mm x 178mm x 9mm
• Gewicht: 282g
• ISBN-13: 9781108073745
• ISBN-10: 1108073743
• Artikelnr.: 41609601