Excerpt:
Eighty percent of the scientists who have ever lived are alive today. More surprisingly, the same statement could have been made one, two, or even three centuries ago. Not only has science been expanding rapidly since the scientific revolution of the seventeenth century, it has emerged as a dominant force in our culture. This suggests why many educators have realized that an understanding of the evolution of science and of its influence on our society is a vital part of education. Study of the history of science provides just such understanding.
Annotation:
This introduction of the History of Science by Michael J. Crowe offers undergraduates a description of the field and a rationale for why this subject is interesting and important. The story gains perspective by quotes papered throughout the essay from scholars who have previously commented on the history of science. The site also answers popular questions undergrads might ask and suggests questions for discussion and reflection.