George Wilson’s Vision of Early Victorian Science and Technology: Unity in Variety

This volume is a comprehensive study of George Wilson, a leading advocate for evangelical science and for the role of biology in technology - it examines his work to develop a unitary vision of Victorian science and technology by drawing upon religion, transcendental natural history, and Baconian philosophy

George Wilson was the first Regius Professor of Technology at the University of Edinburgh and the founding Director of the Industrial Museum of Scotland (now the National Museum of Scotland). Throughout his career he lectured and published on a wide range of topics, including the prospect of life on other planets, the history of science, natural theology, chemistry and poetry. His works were very popular - he was praised by Charles Dickens and his lectures drew large audiences, particularly women. Wilson sought to educate people about the significant scientific and technological developments taking place during the first half of the nineteenth century and create a unitary vision of science and technology. This book is largely based on Wilson’s own writings, and it is the first book-length study of him published in the last 160 years.

This book is essential for researchers and scholars alike interested in Victorian science and technology.

David F. Channell received his Ph.D. in the history of science and technology from Case Western Reserve University. He is on the faculty of the University of Texas at Dallas where he is Professor of History/History of Ideas. He has authored six books on the history of science and technology.