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Ingenious Philosopher: John Theophilus Desaguliers (1683-1744), popularizer of Newtonianism and promoter of freemasonry
thesis
posted on 2023-09-14, 10:45 authored by Audrey T. CarpenterThis account of John Theophilus DesaguJiers and his diverse contribution to
London life during the first part of the eighteenth century adds extensively to
previous biographical material. The arrangement is essentially thematic, as too
many activities overlap for a strictly chronological narrative. Desaguliers's main
interests were 'twofold: the dissemination of Newtonian ideas and applications of
new technologies; and freemasonry. An ordained Anglican minister of Huguenot
descent, he was also a translator and an occasional poet. These varied interests are
reflected in the structure of the thesis. The Introduction offers a summary of
contemporary thought on Newtonian science and associated religious controversy
in the early eighteenth century. The first section deals with Desaguliers's early life
and his introduction to Newtonian ideas while a student at Oxford. Then, in the
context of the current public scene, the development of his reputation in London
and beyond as a lecturer in experimental philosophy and astronomy is described,
together with his work as a demonstrator for the Royal Society. The next section
examines ways in which he used his technical expertise at the dawn of the
industrial revolution to assist with projects for his patron the Duke of Chandos, and
in various engineering works. Desaguliers's comprehensive two-volume Course of
Experimental Philosophy was based on his lectures but also merits attention for its
details of a practical and technological nature. The final section initially considers
Desaguliers's important and lasting contribution to freemasonry. More personal
matters are then addressed: poetry, family and health, and life in the house in
Westminster that was for many years central to all Desaguliers's activities. The
Conclusion assesses his significance as a freemason and importance as a champion
of Newtonianism. Use of contemporary manuscripts, newspapers and printed
sources has yielded valuable new information on Desaguliers's life and career, and
on his circle of acquaintance. It is suggested that his various endeavours may have
been motivated in part by a desire to vindicate his deprived background and
become accepted, and indeed respected, by London society, as well as by a genuine
belief in the importance of the dissemination of new scientific and technological
ideas and in the social benefits of association in groups such as the freemasons.
History
School
- Design and Creative Arts
Department
- English
Publisher
Loughborough UniversityRights holder
© Audrey T. CarpenterPublication date
2010Notes
This thesis is closed access. A Doctoral Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Doctor of Philosophy of Loughborough University.Language
- en
Supervisor(s)
Elaine HobbyQualification name
- PhD
Qualification level
- Doctoral