The Newtonian System of Cambridge

Henry Pemberton's View of Sir Isaac Newton's Philosophy

Newton’s wilfully obscure use of Latin and the inherent complexity of his subject matter occasioned the need amongst scholars and public alike for a more accessible account of his natural philosophy. Henry Pemberton’s ‘view’ of Newton’s philosophy sought to fill this need in the form of a textbook intended for gentlemen. Introduced with a lengthy poem and devoid of mathematical equations, Pemberton’s hope was that Newton’s ideas could be understood without the need to engage in ‘the minute and tedious Calculations necessary to their Production’.

Author: Henry Pemberton
Title: A view of Sir Isaac Newton's philosophy (London, 1728)
Shelfmark: N.1.32(1)

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