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Out of the Shadow of a Giant

How Newton Stood on the Shoulders of Hooke and Halley

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Out of the Shadow of a Giant

By: John Gribbin, Mary Gribbin
Narrated by: Peter Noble
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Shortlisted for the BSHS Hughes Prize

What if Isaac Newton had never lived?

Robert Hooke and Edmond Halley, whose place in history has been overshadowed by the giant figure of Newton, were pioneering scientists within their own right, and instrumental in establishing the Royal Society.

Whilst Newton is widely regarded as one of the greatest scientists of all time, and the father of the English scientific revolution, John and Mary Gribbin uncover the fascinating story of Robert Hooke and Edmond Halley, whose scientific achievements neatly embrace the hundred years or so during which science as we know it became established in Britain. They argue persuasively that even without Newton science in Britain would have made a great leap forward in the second half of the seventeenth century, headed by two extraordinary men, Hooke and Halley.

 17th Century Europe Great Britain History History & Philosophy Modern Physics Professionals & Academics Science Science & Technology Mathematics Astronomy
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Critic reviews

‘Elegant and meticulously researched … this is a most enjoyable book.’ The Observatory
Praise for the authors:
‘Mary and John Gribbin write with great clarity.’ Guardian
‘Precise yet mysterious … as beautiful as a poem and as exciting as a novel.’ The Sunday Times
‘A gripping account of the history of quantum mechanics and a clear description of its significance – and weirdness. Absolutely fascinating.’ Isaac Asimov
‘Immensely readable’ The Times
All stars
Most relevant
Hooke and Halley really were two great men unfortunate to be overshadowed by Isaac Newton. They were both outstanding in their own right, and this book will help to re-establish their well-deserved reputations. It gives a fascinating insight into their lives and is very informative about the science of the times. It is also very well written and perfectly narrated. Very enjoyable.

A great tribute to two Great men

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