JOURNAL ARTICLE

Electrifying Thinkers.

  • Published In: Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 2025, v. 166, n. 1. P. 1 1 of 3

  • Database: America: History and Life with Full Text 2 of 3

  • Authored By: MORUS, IWAN RHYS 3 of 3

Abstract

The article examines the interconnected lives and ideas of three influential figures of the late 18th century: Joseph Priestley, Richard Price, and Benjamin Franklin, focusing on their shared fascination with electricity and its implications for society. It highlights how their backgrounds as dissenters positioned them on the periphery of political and intellectual power, allowing them to explore radical ideas that contributed to revolutionary movements in Europe and America. The text discusses how electricity, once viewed as a manifestation of divine power, evolved into a symbol of change and transformation, reflecting the Enlightenment's broader intellectual currents. Ultimately, the article illustrates the significant role these "electrifying thinkers" played in shaping the relationship between science, religion, and politics during a transformative period in history. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society. 2025/03, Vol. 166, Issue 1, p1
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Biography
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0003-049X
  • DOI:10.1353/pro.2025.a963669
  • Accession Number:186169816
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