Familiar Letters on Chemistry


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(4.3 stars; 38 reviews)

In Familiar Letters on Chemistry, Justus von Liebig, a pioneering German chemist, shares his insights on the vital role of chemistry in society. Written in the form of letters, this work aims to engage both governments and the public in the importance of establishing chemistry education and its applications in everyday life.

Set against the backdrop of the 19th century, Liebig's correspondence addresses the intersection of science, agriculture, and social progress. He emphasizes how understanding chemical principles can enhance agricultural practices and improve the quality of life in modern civilization.

Through accessible language and relatable examples, Liebig invites readers to appreciate the significance of chemistry beyond the laboratory. His advocacy for education in this field reflects a forward-thinking vision that resonates with contemporary discussions about science and society.

Chapters

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Preface/TOC 7:38 Read by J. M. Smallheer
Letter I - The Subject Proposed 13:40 Read by ML Cohen
Letter II - Changes of Form which every kind of Matter undergoes. 13:39 Read by ML Cohen
Letter III - The Manufacture of Soda from Culinary Salt... 17:26 Read by Peter Yearsley
Letter IV - Connection of Theory with Practice 17:44 Read by Peter Yearsley
Letter V - ISOMERISM 13:46 Read by Peter Yearsley
Letter VI - ALLIANCE OF CHEMISTRY WITH PHYSIOLOGY 10:35 Read by J. M. Smallheer
Letter VII - ANIMAL HEAT, its laws and influence on the Animal Functions 20:24 Read by Gary Gilberd
Letter VIII - ALIMENTS 15:44 Read by J. M. Smallheer
Letter IX - Growth of Animals 12:29 Read by ML Cohen
Letter X - Application of the preceding facts to Man 10:51 Read by ML Cohen
Letter XI - CIRCULATION OF MATTER IN THE ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE KINGDOMS 16:21 Read by Larysa Jaworski
Letter XII - SCIENCE AND ART OF AGRICULTURE. NECESSITY OF CHEMISTRY. 10:32 Read by Larysa Jaworski
Letter XIII - ILLUSTRATION OF THE NECESSITY OF CHEMISTRY TO ADVANCE AND PERFECT AGRICULTURE 12:42 Read by Larysa Jaworski
Letter XIV - NATURE AND EFFECTS OF MANURES 15:28 Read by Esther
Letter XV - SOURCE OF THE CARBON AND NITROGEN OF PLANTS 33:17 Read by Gary Gilberd
Letter XVI - RESULTS OF THE AUTHOR'S LATEST INQUIRIES 10:12 Read by Peter Yearsley

Reviews


(4 stars)

this is a good introduction to agronomy, a bit dated and neglecting the microbial influence, but very good for home gardeners, or farmers wanting to find the roots of their "science and art"


(5 stars)

Full of fun facts! Although I'm not sure of it's accuracy.