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The Ambitions of Curiosity G. E. R. Lloyd (University of Cambridge)

The Ambitions of Curiosity By G. E. R. Lloyd (University of Cambridge)

The Ambitions of Curiosity by G. E. R. Lloyd (University of Cambridge)


45,99 $
Condition - Very Good
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Summary

This 2002 book explores the origins of systematic inquiry into science, historiography, and language in ancient Greece, Mesopotamia and China. It investigates how and why research developed differently in these societies and illustrates the tensions that existed between state control and individual innovation and the different ways those tensions were resolved.

The Ambitions of Curiosity Summary

The Ambitions of Curiosity: Understanding the World in Ancient Greece and China by G. E. R. Lloyd (University of Cambridge)

In The Ambitions of Curiosity, first published in 2002, one of the world's foremost philosophers of science explores the origins and growth of systematic inquiry in Greece, China, and Mesopotamia. Professor Lloyd examines which factors stimulated or inhibited this development, and whose interests were served. He asks who set the agenda? What was the role of the state in sponsoring, supporting or blocking research, in such areas as historiography, natural philosophy, medical research, astronomy, technology, pure and applied mathematics? How were each of those fields defined and developed in different ancient societies? How did truly innovative thinkers persuade their own contemporaries to accept their work? Professor Lloyd explores the different routes those developments took in China, Greece and Mesopotamia, and demonstrates the unexpected results of many research efforts, as well as the tensions between state control and individual innovation and the different ways they were resolved - problems that remain central to scientific research today.

The Ambitions of Curiosity Reviews

'... an important work ... recommended for undergraduate use.' Scott Rubarth, Bryn Mawr Classical Review

About G. E. R. Lloyd (University of Cambridge)

G. E. R. Lloyd is Emeritus Professor of Ancient Philosophy and Science at the University of Cambridge; he was Master of Darwin College from 1989 to 2000.

Table of Contents

1. Histories, annals, myths; 2. The modalities of prediction; 3. The number of things; 4. Applications and applicabilities; 5. The language of learning; 6. Individuals and institutions; Glossary of Chinese and Greek terms; Bibliography; Index.

Additional information

GOR006126414
9780521894616
0521894611
The Ambitions of Curiosity: Understanding the World in Ancient Greece and China by G. E. R. Lloyd (University of Cambridge)
Used - Very Good
Paperback
Cambridge University Press
2002-10-21
200
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in very good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us

Customer Reviews - The Ambitions of Curiosity