Robert Boyle and English Thought
Meyrick H. Carré introduces an Irishman who personified the genius of experimental inquiry and did much to influence the Enlightenment in England.
In the early years of the seventeenth century men who were interested in scientific questions gathered at Gresham House, in Bishopsgate, London, where mathematical lectures were given to all who cared to attend. At first many of those who formed the audiences at the lectures were makers of instruments, such as astrolabes, compasses, clocks and other useful inventions.
An increasing number were attracted by the theories of William Gilbert and by the strange discoveries reported from Italy and France. Various groups began to meet at regular intervals to discuss the new theories, but it was not until after 1640 that these casual meetings assumed the shape of definite associations.
The most organized of these bodies met weekly at the lodgings of the Professor of Astronomy or at the house of the eminent physician, Dr. Goddard, in Wood Street. The discussions were conducted with some formality; rules of procedure were drawn up and members paid a subscription.
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