A biography of Joseph Priestley, an Enlightenment-era Englishman who made significant contributions in science, theology and politics, at a time when all three were in flux. Priestley insights weren't perfect, as he held too long to faulty scientific assumptions (phlogiston theory) while prematurely grabbing flawed theological propositions.However, Priestley was an early innovator in sharing ideas in an open communities, which enabled him to impact such a broad range of disciplines. May we be inspired to do the same. An interesting look at an influential life. The author attempts to draw lessons for our time regarding the integration of science, religion, and politics in Priestley's life; and he also makes the case for analyzing history in the "long view". It is difficult to buy wholeheartedly in the lesson transference given the very different worlds in which we live where science is dominant now over religious explanations of most things. It is not as if that integrated approach made politics or religion less polar and raucous in the 1790's than it is now. In fact, the whole of the last third of the book is spent illustrating how the Jefferson Adams debate along such lines was very hostile. Similarly, while the "long view" is an interesting viewpoint which the author advocates in his other books, like "Where Good Ideas Come From", it is but one tool in the kit and certainly is not for all situations the best tool.Still, there is much to be learned from this biographical treatment of an interesting influencer of scientific, religious and American political ideals.Lastly, I am taken by the account of how science has evolved towards specialization and lost the ability for "grass roots" participation. Johnson summarizes this well in saying that the lay scientist is best suited for poking holes in established pardigms, while the professional is best suited for making sense of the disparate and discordant new data until the form a new paradigm. You need both.
What do You think about The Invention Of Air (2008)?
Joseph Priestly was a brilliant and courageous man. This book is an inspiration.
—monxmarie
Very good book about an extremely smart man who is little known.
—Dammiecute91
A Story Of Science, Faith, Revolution, And The Birth Of America
—annab
History. Science. Philosophy. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
—jmmamm
