Variations on a Theme
- Editore:
VDM Verlag Dr. Müller e.K.
- EAN:
9783639103311
- ISBN:
3639103319
- Pagine:
- 292
- Formato:
- Paperback
- Lingua:
- Tedesco
Descrizione Variations on a Theme
This work examines affinity theories espoused byBritish chemists of the 18th Century, exposing adegree of theoretical variation at odds with thereceived view of a unified, monolithic 'affinitytheory'. Showing that affinity was valued for itsutility and its ability to guide chemical practice,it explains how theories were formulated specificallyto assist the chemist at an operational level. Thiswork explores the roles assigned to affinity inchemical practice and, in particular, in chemicalpedagogy. It traces a complex structure ofcorrespondences and divergences amongst affinitytheories by comparing theoretical componentsperforming the same operational role within differenttheories. In spite of the evident variations amongstaffinity theories, a public consensus still heldthroughout the 18th century. The lack of controversyis evidence of an array of predominantly tacitconcepts forming part of each theory to which allsubscribed; this "common ground" was at the heart ofthe apparent public consensus. The work shows howin due course affinity became a fundamental part ofthe chemical norm to which the majority of chemistsassented.
