History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps
HoP 435 - Metal More Attractive - William Gilbert and Magnetism
Dec 24, 2023
Exploring the cosmological and methodological implications of breakthroughs in understanding magnetism and electricity in the 17th century, focusing on William Gilbert's groundbreaking book 'Concerning the Magnet, Magnetic Bodies and This Great Magnet, The Earth', his theory of magnetism and empirical observations, as well as the influence of craft skills and anti-Aristotelian natural philosophy in the 17th century.
17:54
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Quick takeaways
- The concept of action at a distance posed a challenge to explanations based on Aristotelian science in the understanding of magnetism and electricity in the 17th century.
- Gilbert's theory of elemental bodies proposed that magnetism is not exclusive to special stones but is a property of all true Earth, connecting magnetism to practical applications and navigational challenges.
Deep dives
Magnetism and Puzzlement of Pre-Modern Theories
Gilbert explores the puzzling nature of magnetism and its relationship with other natural phenomena. He highlights the difficulty in explaining the attraction between a loadstone and a piece of iron in pre-modern theories of matter. Additionally, he notes the concept of action at a distance and the challenge it poses to explanations based on Aristotelian science. Gilbert also discusses the recognition of magnetism as a hidden or occult power in nature.
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