Discovering the Thrills of Science History

What inspired you to dive into the world of science history? For Patricia Fara, it’s a thrilling blend of storytelling and facts. "I studied physics, but history brings a fun twist—establishing the facts while crafting the narrative that surrounds them," she shares.

Lessons from the Ages: A Candid Reflection

Fara highlights an unflinching truth from her studies: "Ambition and ruthlessness are everywhere, and they’re hard to eliminate." It's a stark reminder of the darker side of human nature that has shaped history.

Books That Shaped Her Mind

When asked which book made the biggest impact, Fara cites Greg Dening’s *The Death of William Gooch*, a poignant read that has influenced her scholarly journey. For anyone eager to understand the complexities of science, she recommends Peter Galison’s *Einstein’s Clocks, Poincaré’s Maps*—a must-read classic.

A Journey Back in Time

If given the chance, which historical moment would Fara revisit? She dreams of witnessing the first demonstrations of electrical machines in the early 18th century, a revolutionary time in technological history.

Influences & Inspirations

Fara acknowledges the profound impact of her PhD supervisor, Jim Secord, who was pivotal in shaping her academic career. When thinking of historical figures, she expresses a desire to meet Emilie du Châtelet, the 18th-century mathematician who championed the joy of life through inquiry and passion.

A Multilingual Mind

Her intellect is further highlighted by her proficiency in multiple languages, including French, German, Latin, and Serbo-Croatian, showcasing the global reach of her scholarly pursuits.

The Excitement of Global History

What excites her most in the field today? Fara points to global history, emphasizing its significance in understanding our interconnected world.

Rethinking Scientific Revolutions

Interestingly, Fara has evolved her views on scientific revolutions—once a cornerstone of her thinking, she now finds them somewhat limiting in understanding history.

Challenges Faced by Historians

One common misconception about history? Many believe you must be a scientist to engage with its narratives. Fara argues that history is for all curious minds.

Underrated and Overrated Figures

In her historical reflections, Fara considers Tahitian navigator Tupaia—who was instrumental in James Cook's expeditions—as woefully underrated. Conversely, she finds Isaac Newton to be considered overly glorified.

Exploring Historical Texts

Despite her vast reading, Fara admits she’s only skimmed through Darwin's *On the Origin of Species*, recognizing the need to dive deeper into this foundational text.

Archives and Museums to Admire

Among her treasured places is the Women’s Library at LSE, a vital resource for uncovering the contributions of women in history. She also praises the Spalding Gentlemen’s Society as a top museum.

The Tech that Transformed Our World

When asked about technology’s greatest impact, she identifies radio—a medium that has changed how we connect and share information globally.

Navigating Fiction in Historical Contexts

While Fara steers clear of historical novels due to the hazy line between fact and fiction, she recommends Brian Friel’s *Translations* for those inclined towards historical drama.

Solving Historical Mysteries

If given the chance to solve one historical mystery, Fara would seek clarity on Newton’s unexplained absences from Trinity College—an enigma that continues to intrigue historians and science enthusiasts alike.