First published in 1857, this work comprises assorted noteworthy writings by the mathematician and astronomer Sir John Herschel (1792 1871), reflecting his diverse scientific and literary interests. It includes a piece on terrestrial magnetism, a review of William Whewell's writings on the history and philosophy of science, and several addresses to the Royal Astronomical Society. Of particular interest is Herschel's commentary on Adolphe Quetelet's work on probability, which advocated applying statistics and probability calculus to social and political questions. Herschel's article not only...
First published in 1857, this work comprises assorted noteworthy writings by the mathematician and astronomer Sir John Herschel (1792 1871), reflectin...