Five of Maxwell’s Papers Paperback – August 3, 2011

Most of this short book is devoted to Maxwell's philosophy of science. Like literary criticism and theory, scientific philosophy might be an essential subject for the budding scientist. Maxwell does well in providing an expansive overview of science in his own time.

Excellent view into education from a previous century. The focus and description's shewn by Maxwell should entise all who read this to seek deeper personal expansion, if soley for the ability to contribute to the whole of mankind and not just personal or singularlly professional goals!

The papers in this book were written over 150 years ago, but it is very readable and still relevant. Written by a very knowledgeable scientist Maxwell gives his view of the relationship of mathematics and physics and how people come to understand abstract and foreign ideas. He also gives views on how the sciences and mathematics should be taught in schools. The book is a short read. I even learned that James Clerk Maxwell is a poet.

In awe of Maxwell. Clawed the truth from the void by sheer dint of willpower and genius. A dead pixel view is ok because of the historicity. It speaks to the man's singular imagination and courage and such emerges from the pages.

Attempted to read several times. Way over my head. Made me dizzy. I had to have a lie down after each attempt.

Satisfied

The first couple of essays are so-so, but then Maxwell goes into a brilliant discussion of the relationship between mathematics and physics, followed by a discussion of experimentation (in the context of his university setting up a physics lab).

I want my money back.

I have a softspot for this man who despite marrying the Principal's daughter got sacked from Aberdeen Uni and went on to do some of his best work between jobs at the family farm. He seems something of a hero for various people eg the recent GGR memorial lecture in Durham had a Manchester prof singing his praises & indeed the reviews of his biography - The man who changed everything - are fullsome.I have read several of his papers before: On the cyclide being my favourite and have perused his books. His style is an acquired taste in these word processed times but that may be the fault of modern journals as I have local history books that refrain from exploiting formatting options. The best of this selection is his address to the Mathmatical Society reported in 1870 as it gives an overview of current understanding and refers to the guesstimate of molecular dimension which seem surprisingly accurate for 150 years ago.In conclusion I would say worth a look but without the math (type-setting issue ?) it is more of a snapshot of his chain of thoughts rather than a full reflection of his endeavours. But, maybe I am being too harsh, after all the local museum here where he stood has only one piece of his - though a wonderful instrument to discover colour.

Fascinating reading. I would recommend this to anyone interested in the work of James Clerk Maxwell. Great price (FREE).Andy

Clever man

A little difficult to follow in this day and age, the language isFlowery and not crisp.

Good Book