History of the Plurality of Worlds

Beschreibung

Modern research has demonstrated that many stars are surrounded by planets—some of which might contain the right conditions to harbor life. This has only reinforced a question that has been tormenting scientists, philosophers and priests since Antiquity: Are there other inhabited worlds beyond our own?
This book analyzes the many ways that humans have argued for and depicted extraterrestrial life over the centuries. The first known texts about the subject date from as early as the 6th century BC. Since that time, countless well-known historical characters like Lucretius, Aristotle, Thomas Aquinas, Cusanus, Bruno, Kepler, Descartes, and Huygens contributed to the debate; here, their lesser known opinions on the subject are studied in detail.
It is often difficult for the modern mind to follow the thinking of our ancestors, which can only be understood when placed in the relevant context. The book thus extends its scope to the evolution of ideas about cosmology in general, as well as the culture in which these great thinkers wrote. The research is presented with the author's insight and humor, making this an easy and enjoyable read. 

Modern research has demonstrated that many stars are surrounded by planets—some of which might contain the right conditions to harbor life. This has only reinforced a question that has been tormenting scientists, philosophers and priests since Antiquity: Are there other inhabited worlds beyond our own?
This book analyzes the many ways that humans have argued for and depicted extraterrestrial life over the centuries. The first known texts about the subject date from as early as the 6th century BC. Since that time, countless well-known historical characters like Lucretius, Aristotle, Thomas Aquinas, Cusanus, Bruno, Kepler, Descartes, and Huygens contributed to the debate; here, their lesser known opinions on the subject are studied in detail.
It is often difficult for the modern mind to follow the thinking of our ancestors, which can only be understood when placed in the relevant context. The book thus extends its scope to the evolution of ideas about cosmology in general, as well as the culture in which these great thinkers wrote. The research is presented with the author's insights and humor, making this an easy and enjoyable read. 

A comprehensive, engaging foray into how beliefs in the plurality of worlds have shifted over time Extends its analysis to the broader development of science, cosmology, and religion Chronicles famous supporters and opponents of the theory, along with its most controversial and significant events

Autor*in

Pierre Connes

Themen in »History of the Plurality of Worlds«

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Stimmen zu »History of the Plurality of Worlds«

“I found this an engaging book, with a much wider scope than suggested by its title. The writing is lively and humorous, welcome when approaching some of the metaphysical and theological passages. The supporting apparatus, footnotes, two bibliographies, and index are thorough, and the production is good … . I am happy to recommend it, not just for specialists.” (Peredur Williams, The Observatory, Vol. 141 (1280), February, 2021)
“The book is well written, solidly produced, and infused with numerous color … . All things considered, this book is a good contribution to the literature and a fitting historical capstone to a stellar astronomical career.” (Steven J. Dick Ashburn, Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage, Vol. 23 (2), 2020)
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