Thomas Wright's book about the natural philosopher William Harvey is an excellent example of an intelligent and well-researched history of science book aimed at the general reader. It offers some biographical glimpses of the man himself, but is especially noteworthy for the fascinating insights it provides not only into Harvey's methods and thought processes, but also how it places his achievements into the wider context of period, culture and natural philosphy. His theory of the circulation of the blood had unintended and far-reaching consequences that became apparent even during Harvey's lifetime, and on which he must have looked with horror. The text is supported by a large number of contemporary or near-contemporary drawings, engravings and other artwork. ( )

Excellent science for the general reader.
The author provides a limited biography of William Harvey (it would be hard to provide a complete bio based on the limited sources available) and also provides excellent background material on the era, placing his subject in his life and times.
Unusually, the book has chapters on Harvey and his work, interspersed with "essays" on the background of anatomy, philosophy, and the development of a scientific method. I found this structure helpful and readable.
It is fascinating to see Harvey undertaking multiple dissections to develop his understanding of the heart and blood flow, while not yet using a scientific method as we would now understand it. The key selling point of his final publication on circulation was the analogies to other "circulating" systems - planets etc. So, almost modern, but not there yet.
Read March 2017 ( )