Chemistry: The Impure Science - Hardcover

In this book Bensaude-Vincent and Simon offer up a refreshing and innovative introduction to the history and philosophy of chemistry, the like of which is not to be found anywhere in the extant literature. The authors locate chemistry squarely in the material and social worlds of its practices, and a sustained commitment to that contextualization gives their philosophical discourse a distinctive flavour. -- Hasok Chang "Hans Rausing Professor of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Cambridge" In clear and simple prose the authors provide a richly historically-informed interpretation of the philosophy of chemistry for student and scholar alike. -- Dr Robert Bud "Keeper of Science and Medicine, The Science Museum, London" In conclusion, I recommend Chemistry: The Impure Science to the readers of Annals of Science. The authors propose a philosophy of chemistry in a reading of the history of chemistry in a fascinating way. -- Annals of Science "Annals of Science" It is an interesting and informative book with the expected emphasis on the philosophical side. Having enjoyed reading it, I recommend it to chemical libraries and to individuals with a taste for history and philosophy of chemistry. -- Current Science "Current Science"

This book uses history to introduce central issues in the philosophy of chemistry. Mobilizing the theme of impurity, it explores the tradition of chemistry's negative image. It then argues for the positive philosophical value of chemistry, reflecting its characteristic practical engagement with the material world. The book concludes with some ethical reflections concerning chemistry's orientations in the twenty-first century.The authors have previously both offered significant contributions to the history and philosophy of chemistry.