Mary Somerville and the Empire of Science in the Nineteenth Century

• 1.00pm – 2.00pm on 28 October 2011
• at The Royal Society, London

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Prof. Jim Secord, Dept. of History and Philosophy of Science, Cambridge

Mary Somerville (1780-1872) was a leading mathematician and author of important books on the sciences: it was in connection with a review of one of these that the term "scientist" first appeared in print. This talk examines her career in relation to debates about the role of women in the making of knowledge and her vision of science in furthering the progress of civilisation and empire.

The lecture is free and all are welcome to attend, but advance booking is necessary. Reserve a seat at this lecture.

Note: this lecture is now almost fully booked. If you are unable to reserve a seat via the link above, please contact Felicity Henderson (02074512597) to add your name to a waiting list.