This two-volume study represents a detailed account of three centuries of innovation, providing a complete portrait of the foundations of modern science and philosophy. Tracing the origins and achievements of the modern age, these sourcebooks deal with all the important developments in science and many of the innovations in the social sciences, British and Continental philosophy and psychology. As well as its comprehensive treatment of the practical innovations, the texts also include biographical information, presenting in one source the history, methods and principles that form the foundations of science and philosophy. Subjects covered in the texts include: mathematics; mechanics; astronomy; physics; meteorology; chemistry; geology; geography; biology; psychology; economics; statistics; philosophy; technology; and social sciences. Illustrations include diagrams of scientific apparatus and instruments, and frontispieces.

Published in 1935: This is the first attempt to give a full portrait if the mind of the 16th and 17th centuries. Detailed accounts are given of all that is important in the first two centuries of modern science and philosophy.