The usual science course is not meant to be a history course and the usual science book is not meant to be a history book. However, most science books do include some historical information. Unfortunately, the history part is usually so brief that it is far from interesting and often so oversimplified that it is totally wrong. Introductory physics books often present the history of physics as a dull, cold, logical progression of discoveries and theories. As a result, the student might think that one day Sir Isaac Newton said to himself, “I think I'll produce a theory of gravitation.” Then he sat down, wrote it all out, published it, received universal acclaim, and then was included in all physics textbooks. This view of science can look pretty dull and unappealing to students.

Topics
Educational aids, Books, Physicists
1.
James Gleick, Isaac Newton (Pantheon Books, 2003). ISBN 0-375-42233-1
2.
Walter Isaacson, Benjamin Franklin — An American Life (Simon & Schuster, 2003). ISBN 0-684-80761-0
3.
H. W. Brands, The First American — The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin (Doubleday, 2000). ISBN 0-385-49328-2
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© 2011 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2011
American Association of Physics Teachers
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