Classical Experiments: Thales Science

Humanities teachers have great books, but science teachers have great experiments. To help students and teachers integrate science and classical education, Classical Experiments brings together concepts in physical science ranging from the scientific method and gravity to hydraulics and optics. It also includes primary source readings from the likes of Aristotle, Francis Bacon, and Marie Curie on the scientific method and the pursuit of scientific knowledge. Most importantly, Classical Experiments provides short readings on the life and significance of figures like Galileo, Blaise Pascal, and Isaac Newton, followed by primary source readings from the works of these seminal scientists. These chapters also include instructions and materials for students and teachers to recreate these experiments for themselves or demonstrate the findings of these revolutionary scientists. These chapters also include instructions and materials for students and teachers to recreate these experiments for themselves or demonstrate the findings of these revolutionary scientists. The purpose of Classical Experiments is to present the readings and experiments of history’s great scientists so that students can cultivate those same habits of intellectual curiosity and academic rigor, see the common, scientific process across the Western canon, and understand the purpose within the values and virtues of classical education. Editing and consulting provided by Beth Lewis and Melissa Svirida.