One Hundred Years of Pressure Hydrostatics from Stevin to Newton

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“One hundred years of pressure offers a rich and searching analysis of the conceptual development of what has become known as the science of hydrostatics. … Chalmers’s account is impeccable; the logic of his argument is consistent and convincing. Confining the account to a ‘conceptual self-realization of hydrostatics’ allows for a clear and precise analysis.” (Fokko Jan Dijksterhuis, Metascience, Vol. 28, 2019)

“Chalmers (retired, Univ. of Sydney, Australia) delves into the understanding of pressure that has evolved over the centuries … . The main focus is how the knowledge of pressure within a stationary liquid … developed in the context of historical changes. Chalmers explores the mechanistic philosophy that led to the understanding of the concept, with major shifts after the 17th century. … Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above; faculty and professionals.” (N. Sadanand, Choice, Vol. 55 (4), December, 2017)

“This book should be available in the library of institutions that have researchers in either of these fields. Likewise, physicists from the field of hydrostatics will probably enjoy reading Chalmers’ book and benefit from his analysis.” (Peter Heering, Science and Education, Vol. 27, 2018)