The Newtonian System of Cambridge

John Keill's Introduction to True Physics

Published in Oxford in 1701, Keill’s Introduction to true physics bears the distinction of being the first popular textbook of Newtonian philosophy. As an Oxford lecturer in experimental philosophy, Keill is also remembered for having offered the first course on Newtonian natural philosophy, and the first reputedly based on 'experimental demonstrations', at either of the English universities. As described in his Introduction, many of these ‘demonstrations’ appear to have been mathematical ‘thought experiments’ rather than real manipulations. Yet, despite Keill’s foresight as a pioneer of ‘scientific Newtonianism’, Oxford ultimately proved less favourable than Cambridge as an environment in which to advance Newtonian philosophy. With its permissive Whig theology that explored Providence through reason and study of the natural world, Cambridge proved more conducive as an institution in which the new thinking could take root.

Author: John Keill
Title: Introductio ad veram physicam: seu lectiones physicae (London, 1719)
Shelfmark: R.9.50

David HughesR.9.50exhibition