An Introduction to the History of Science

"An Introduction to the History of Science" by Walter Libby is a journey through the story of science, starting with the ancient Egyptians and Babylonians and moving through the Greeks and Romans. The book emphasizes that early science grew out of real, everyday problems that people needed to solve. It shows how measuring, keeping time, and understanding the stars were all connected to the needs of these societies. The narrative presents science as something always changing and building upon itself, shaped by different cultures and how they lived. The book begins by pointing out that the need for practical solutions led to essential inventions like the seven-day week and the compass, setting the stage for understanding science as a story of people working together throughout history to improve their lives.