Robert Hooke’s Experimental Philosophy

Henderson (archives and material culture, Univ. of Exeter ) focuses her biography on the work and life of 17th-century scientist Robert Hooke. Hooke’s biggest contribution to science was introducing methods that became known as the scientific method of research. Before this, scientists did not follow established procedures or write down their methodologies or findings in a standard way. The book, written in an academic tone, describes how Hooke was born into impoverished conditions but became the first salaried scientific researcher in England. Henderson also discusses Hooke’s position as curator of experiments for the Royal Society, his geometry professorship at Grisham College, and several other prestigious academic achievements. This book is also about the era of the rebuilding of London after the Great Fire of 1666; Hooke played a large role in the reconstruction efforts, as a surveyor and planner.