From atomos to atom : the history of the concept atom
Widely acclaimed as an outstanding contribution to both science and philosophy, this classic work profiles the concept of the atom from earliest to modern times. Author Andrew G. van Melsen traces the Greek atomos from its central position in Greek philosophy to its reemergence from obscurity as the atom in the scientific discussions of the seventeenth century, when it became a fundamental concept of physical science -- and has remained so to the present day. The first part is philosophic in nature and chronicles the atom's progress from Grecian philosophy through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and into the pivotal age of the seventeenth century. The second part, primarily scientific in outlook, examines how the atom evolved into a physical concept; surveys its development into a distinct autonomous structure; and deals with the subsequent evolution of atomic theory that led to the quantum theory. The final chapter addresses some of the philosophic questions that arise in the course of this historical survey, including the highly significant issue of whether there remains room for philosophy alongside physical science. Book jacket
Print Book, English, 2004
Dover Publications, Mineola, N.Y., 2004