Sympathetic Attractions

Focusing on the interplay between science and culture, this study delves into how eighteenth-century natural philosophers shaped the understanding of magnetism by integrating navigational expertise. The book highlights the era's fascination with magnetic phenomena, linking them to themes of mystery, attraction, and imperial ambition. Through an analysis of cultural interactions, it reveals the transition towards organized scientific disciplines and the rise of public science, offering a vibrant portrayal of a society in transformation, enriched with illustrations.