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Readings in Newton's Principia Mathematica
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:17
Abstract
The heart of this course will be a close reading of “the most unread famous book in the Western world.", Newton’s Principia Mathematica Philosophiae Naturalis (first published 1687). In this course, we will read as much as we can of Newton's text, by focusing on how mathematical, and especially geometrical, methods involve a new world vision and a new practice of science.
Objective
Our objectives will be: 1. to understand Newton's original physical theory 2. to understand the mathematics he uses 3. to get a clear vision of his place in the development of modern scientific practice 4. to learn how to read historical texts carefully 5. to introduce students to the subtile philosophical questions implied by scientific practice
Content
In the Principia, Newton develops a mathematical theory of mechanics, which he then applies to astronomical problems. Newton paves the way to the practice of science that is familiar to us, and yet in an unfamiliar and quite suprising manner. There are at least two reasons for this surprise: the historical framework within which he shapes his scientific practice, and the very peculiar way in which he deals with this framework. We will discover this by reading and commenting on the text extensively from the first definitions onwards. The structure and meaning of the geometrical methods developed by Newton will be studied in detail. The basic text will be the English translation of Newton’s Principia. Supplementary readings on different issues related to Newtonian theories will be provided during the semester.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , DR , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 50
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Readings in Newton's Principia Mathematica |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Wissenschaft im Kontext (Science in Perspective) (In Kursen aus dem Programm “Wissenschaft im Kontext” lernen Studierende, die MINT Fächer der ETH aus der Perspektive der Geistes-, Sozial- und Staatswissenschaften zu reflektieren. Nur die in diesem Abschnitt aufgelisteten Fächer können als "Wissenschaft im Kontext" angerechnet werden.)
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Typ A: Förderung allgemeiner Reflexionskompetenz (WiK-Kurse werden für Bachelorstudierende nach dem ersten Studienjahr sowie für alle Masterstudierende und Doktorierende empfohlen. Alle WiK-Kurse sind in Typ A gelistet. Bei den unter Typ B aufgeführten Kursen handelt es sich lediglich um Belegungsempfehlungen für bestimmte Departemente.)
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Doktorat Geistes-, Sozial- und Staatswissenschaften (Mehr Informationen unter: )