A Culture of Fact

In 'A Culture of Fact', Barbara J. Shapiro examines how the concept of 'fact' emerged and spread across various disciplines in early modern England.

She demonstrates that the modern notion of fact originated in legal discourse, relying on eyewitness testimony, and later influenced scientific philosophy, historiography, and literature.

Shapiro's work highlights the significant role of legal practices in shaping the concept of fact and its broader cultural impact.