Book Review on Isaac Newton by James Gleick Isaac Newton by James Gleick delves into the intricacies of Isaac Newton’s illustrious life primarily focusing on his scientific discoveries in disciplines ranging from alchemy to calculus. The novel also discusses Newton’s inspirations for his studies, and other important “philosophers” and their theories surrounding the same subject matter. It unveils the entirety of Newton’s life, instead of only presenting a glorified representation, as is the general preconception. Newton was not a man of a calm disposition basing his studies solely in legitimate matters. Instead he was a man with a raging temper brought about by even the slightest criticism, and a believer in the dishonorable study of alchemy. …show more content…
Originally I believed that Newton was simply a typical 17th century gentleman that contributed to physics through his three laws , and to mathematics by adding a small amount of knowledge to calculus. I never knew about Newton’s insights into optics, religion, astronomy, alchemy, and the degree in which he developed calculus. While he sought to answer scientific questions, he often became a recluse, completely devoting himself to his studies. He was reluctant to share his findings, again striking me as peculiar considering their importance. I found his life away from science more surprising than his intellectual achievements. He devoted countless hours, and pages of notes to his view on Christianity. As a man of science I would have never understood why Newton would delve into this study. However, Gleick provided invaluable insight about how religion, and science were ultimately interconnected during this time period, as both fell under the realm of philosophy. I was also surprised by his position at the mint, and the fortune he amassed from that profession. Originally I would have expected this novel to describe Newton’s life outside of science in great detail. Gleick accomplished this to the best of his ability since Newton made sure to involve himself in his studies as often as possible, and rarely departed from