Original Theory or New Hypothesis of the Universe, Founded upon the Laws of Nature : And Solving by Mathematical Principles the General Ph'nomena of the Visible Creation, and Particularly the Via Lactea

Wright, Thomas

ISBN 10: 1108073743 / ISBN 13: 9781108073745

Published by Cambridge University Press, 2014

About this Item

Unread book in perfect condition.

Seller Inventory # 21871953

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Original Theory or New Hypothesis of the Universe, Founded upon the Laws of Nature : And Solving by Mathematical Principles the General Ph'nomena of the Visible Creation, and Particularly the Via Lactea
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication Date: 2014
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1108073743
• ISBN 13: 9781108073745
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: As New

About this title

Synopsis

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.

Book Description

Both an amateur astronomer and a strongly religious man, Thomas Wright (1711–86) is known for his description of the Milky Way as disc-shaped. The various claims he made, based on a combination of his observations and his religious beliefs, are given in this illustrated and influential work of 1750.