Robert J. Silverman – författare

Thomas Hankins and Robert Silverman investigate an array of instruments from the seventeenth through the nineteenth century that seem at first to be marginal to science--magnetic clocks that were said to operate by the movements of sunflower seeds, magic lanterns, ocular harpsichords (machines that played different colored lights in harmonious mixtures), Aeolian harps (a form of wind chime), and other instruments of "natural magic" designed to produce wondrous effects. By looking at these and the first recording instruments, the stereoscope, and speaking machines, the authors show that "scientific instruments" first made their appearance as devices used to evoke wonder in the beholder, as in works of magic and the theater. The authors also demonstrate that these instruments, even though they were often "tricks," were seen by their inventors as more than trickery.In the view of Athanasius Kircher, for instance, the sunflower clock was not merely a hoax, but an effort to demonstrate, however fraudulently, his truly held belief that the ability of a flower to follow the sun was due to the same cosmic magnetic influence as that which moved the planets and caused the rotation of the earth. The marvels revealed in this work raise and answer questions about the connections between natural science and natural magic, the meaning of demonstration, the role of language and the senses in science, and the connections among art, music, literature, and natural science. Originally published in 1995. The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.

Thomas Hankins and Robert Silverman investigate an array of instruments from the seventeenth through the nineteenth century that seem at first to be marginal to science--magnetic clocks that were said to operate by the movements of sunflower seeds, magic lanterns, ocular harpsichords (machines that played different colored lights in harmonious mixtures), Aeolian harps (a form of wind chime), and other instruments of "natural magic" designed to produce wondrous effects. By looking at these and the first recording instruments, the stereoscope, and speaking machines, the authors show that "scientific instruments" first made their appearance as devices used to evoke wonder in the beholder, as in works of magic and the theater. The authors also demonstrate that these instruments, even though they were often "tricks," were seen by their inventors as more than trickery.In the view of Athanasius Kircher, for instance, the sunflower clock was not merely a hoax, but an effort to demonstrate, however fraudulently, his truly held belief that the ability of a flower to follow the sun was due to the same cosmic magnetic influence as that which moved the planets and caused the rotation of the earth. The marvels revealed in this work raise and answer questions about the connections between natural science and natural magic, the meaning of demonstration, the role of language and the senses in science, and the connections among art, music, literature, and natural science. Originally published in 1995. The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.

"This volume will appeal to a wide array of readers, from novices to those already working in the field. Recommended for all collections."--CHOICE"Reference literature has been hard put to keep pace with its (distance learning) changes so the appearance of an Encyclopedia is most welcome. Recommended for academic and public libraries."--LIBRARY JOURNALIn today′s fast-paced world, with multiple demands on time and resources as well as pressures for career advancement and productivity, self-directed learning is an increasingly popular and practical alternative in continuing education.The Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning defines and applies the best practices of contemporary continuing education designed for adults in corporate settings, Open University settings, graduate coursework, and in similar learning environments.Written for a wide audience in the distance and continuing education field, the Encyclopedia is a valuable resource for deans and administrators at universities and colleges, reference librarians in academic and public institutions, HR officials involved with continuing education/training programs in corporate settings, and those involved in the academic disciplines of Education, Psychology, Information Technology, and Library Science. Sponsored by The Fielding Graduate Institute, this extensive reference work is edited by long-time institute members, bringing with them the philosophy and authoritative background of this premier institution. The Fielding Graduate Institute is well known for offering mid-career professionals opportunities for self-directed, mentored study with the flexibility of time and location that enables students to maintain commitments to family, work, and community.The Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning includes over 275 entries, each written by a specialist in that area, giving the reader comprehensive coverage of all aspects of distributed learning, including use of group processes, self-assessment, the life line experience, and developing a learning contract. Topics CoveredAdministrative Processes Policy, Finance and GovernanceSocial and Cultural PerspectivesStudent and Faculty IssuesTeaching and Learning Processes and TechnologiesTechnical Tools and SupportsKey Features* A-to-Z organization plus Reader′s Guide groups entries by broad topic areas* Over 275 entries, each written by a specialist in that area* Comprehensive index and cross-references between entries add to the encyclopedia′s ease of use* Annotated listings for additional resources, including distance learning programs, print and non-print resources, and conferencesAdvisory BoardTony BatesUniversity of British ColumbiaGregory S. BlimlingAppalachian State UniversityEllie ChambersThe Open University, U.K.Paul DuguidUniversity of California, BerkeleyKenneth C. GreenThe Campus Computing ProjectLinda HarasimSimon Fraser UniversitySally JohnstoneWCETSara KieslerCarnegie Mellon UniversityWilliam MaehlFielding Graduate InstituteMichael G. MoorePennsylvania State UniversityJeremy ShapiroFielding Graduate InstituteRalph A. WolffExecutive Director, Western Association of Schools and Colleges