Latitude & the Magnetic Earth

Revolutions in Science

by Stephen Pumfrey

William Gilbert was the most distinguished man of science in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, the father of electrical studies, and the first to consider the Earth as one vast spherical magnet. Giving the drama of Gilbert's discoveries, this book climaxes with a look at geomagnetism via the story of longitude schemes so crucial for today's seafarers.

Genres: History, Science, Biography, Nonfiction

249 pages, Hardcover

First published December 31, 1950

Reviews

[Velvetink · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was expecting more of a biography than this turned out to be. It seems really little is known of William Gilbert's private life which is a shame considering he was Doctor/physician to Elizabeth 1. Gilbert's theory of latitudes and of magnets is fully covered though and although I found some sections a bit dry, many people into physics will love it and it gives a fairly complete magnetic theory timeline with references to Kepler, Bruno and Dr Dee and many navigators of the period.

[Gary Turner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting book about science at the end of the renaissance era. The church could and did execute free thinkers!!!!!!! Sad. This book is more about the science and less about the life of William Gilbert. A nice read just the same.

[Summisse · Rating 3 out of 5]

The true story of William Gilbert, "Distinguished Man of Science" and the personal physician to Queen Elizabeth I. Gilbert's only published work, De Magnete, became the standard on electricity and magnetism.

[Daniela]

:)