‘A World of New Ideas’, 1650–1820

In the long eighteenth century, between 1650 and 1820, Wales and the rest of Europe moved from a world of alchemy to one of steam engines and electricity. The scientists of Wales contributed to that changing world of new ideas, but their contribution often overlooked in many histories of the period. This book is a corrective that details the work of scientists from Wales in the four home nations of the isles, covering the intellectual changes of the period and their impact on religion; how scientists were educated in Wales; and, in a lengthy final section, some of the practical science undertaken and the social benefits that resulted.

‘Even volumes and series on peripheral Enlightenments have doubted whether a country of bards and druids contributed to the “natural philosophy”, science and practical knowledge that underpin the modern world. This pioneering volume proves that a small country on the Atlantic periphery of Europe can pack a big punch. Welsh poets made references to science; Welsh Methodists preached on it; Welsh engineers built-world famous bridges; and Welsh artisans developed the optical instruments that enabled ground-breaking astronomical discoveries.’

Dr Marion Löffler, Reader in Welsh History and History, Cardiff University

'This book contains multitudes. Packed with fascinating characters, skilfully written, and alive with the energies and enthusiasms of the long eighteenth century it describes, ‘A World of New Ideas’ will be a wonderful resource for readers and researchers across the arts and sciences alike.’

Professor Mary-Ann Constantine, University of Wales Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic Studies