4.4. Revolución científica II. Telescopio y microscopio.
The Visualisation of Scientific Communication
In this section, the speaker discusses how the circulation of knowledge about nature became increasingly visual with the more widespread use of the printing press and new engraving techniques. They also talk about how natural philosophers and naturalists, physicians and surgeons, allied with artists to make representations of anatomical procedures.
Incorporation of Microscope and Telescope
- The microscope and telescope were incorporated into the work and practice of natural philosophers and naturalists in the seventeenth century.
- These two instruments allowed for observing through them to legitimise new experimental practices.
- Observing through these instruments required an important modification in credibility criteria.
- New experimental practices were complemented by visual representation.
Artisan Cultures
- Direct contact with artisan cultures was necessary to understand this new experimental culture that emerged in Europe in the second half of the seventeenth century.
- Neither the microscope nor telescope are understandable exclusively from the abstract world of natural philosophy.
- Artisans supplied a range of unspoken knowledge that helped explain and spread this work alongside natural philosophers.
Importance of Richard Hooke
- Robert Boyle's alliance with Richard Hooke is well known. Hooke is a meticulous observer who made both microscopes and telescopes.
- Today we know that Hooke's importance has been underestimated for a long time due to telling history associated prestige with great heroes and big names exclusively with natural philosopher.