A Short History of the Progress of Scientific Chemistry in our own Times

Abstract

IN size and scope Prof. Tilden's short history recalls Wurtz' brilliant little “History of Chemical Theory,” published thirty years ago. But whereas the key-note of Wurtz' book was the “immortal memory” of Lavoisier, and its main theme the vindication of French chemists contra mundum, the spirit of Dr. Tilden's book lies in its impartiality and sound judgment. In mode of treatment, too, the authors differ. Wurtz, with more personal touches and controversial points, traces the main ideas of chemical combination from the time of Lavoisier continuously to his own; Prof. Tilden, adopting the more natural lecture method, has given us separate histories of the main lines of chemical progress during the Victorian era. We cannot doubt but that the student will find the modern book handier to consult, and sounder, though possibly less stimulating, than its predecessor.

A Short History of the Progress of Scientific Chemistry in our own Times.

By Prof. W. A. Tilden. Pp. x + 276. (London: Longmans, Green, and Co., 1899.)