Introduction to Experimental Physics

Abstract

IN English schools of the present day the teaching of Experimental Physics is, with few exceptions, either neglected or abused. Yet there can be little doubt that this subject ought to be an integral part of the secondary education of every boy and girl. Its usefulness merely as knowledge that touches us at every point in daily life, and that finds its development intimately associated with many modern trades and professions, is a tangible argument in its favour. But it is as a means of education, rather than as a vehicle of instruction, that physics should be taught in schools. And this because of its high power— when properly taught—of educating individual judgment, by training the senses to habits of accurate observation and the mind to clear and precise modes of thought. Added to all this, practical physics confers the benefit, by no means to be lightly regarded, of giving to the hands the power of useful skill.

Introduction to Experimental Physics.

By A. F. Weinhold, Professor in the Royal Technical School at Chemnitz. Translated and edited by B. Loewy, F.R.A.S. With a Preface by Prof. G. C. Foster, F.R.S. (London: Longmans, 1875.)