IAS Book Launch: Metropolitan Science

ABOUT THE BOOK
Exploring distinctive practices in artisanal, mercantile, and governmental sites of London, Metropolitan Science offers a new perspective on the development of a scientific culture, c.1600-1800. Through case studies, such as the Tower of London's Royal Mint, and Livery Company Halls, this book examines sites of exchange within the city, highlighting the importance of public and private spaces and material culture. Noting the significance of London’s commercial, military and colonial  history, the authors show that the collective settings of London corporations produced unique communities that drew on networks across the city and beyond in their use, representation and production of knowledge and practice. 

Beginning with the demographics of London in the 17th and 18th centuries, including its attraction of migrants, importance as a centre of empire, and the role of its institutions in government, the authors analyse how and why London was a unique site of scientific activity. Through the use of case studies, such as the Tower of London's Royal Mint, and the Livery Company Halls, this book examines the city's sites of exchange for knowledge and practice, and highlights the importance of both public and private spaces.

With exploration of London's military and colonial history, the authors acknowledge how its port and maritime trade were not only central to growth and protection, but also facilitated the organisation, assessment, valuation, and pursuit of knowledge in the city. Ultimately, this book demonstrates that London corporations produced unique knowledge communities that drew on networks across the city and beyond, and uses a variety of spatial and material approaches to reveal the use, representation, and exchange of practice in these collective settings.

Metropolitan Science. London Sites and Cultures of Knowledge and Practice, c. 1600-1800 is published by Bloomsbury.

ABOUT THE EVENT
The authors, Rebekah Higgitt and Jasmine Kilburn-Toppin, will be in conversation. The evening will be chaired by Simon Werrett (UCL Science & Technology Studies). Respondents will be confirmed soon.