James Clerk Maxwell and the Theory of the Electromagnetic Field

This book traces the development of Maxwell's theory from his first thoughts on electromagnetism through to the completion of his influential Treatise on Electricity and Magnetism, and shows how this development was related not only to contemporary scientific events but also to Maxwell's personal philosophy of science and life. While primarily concerned with the endeavours and achievements of one individual scientist, it also offers a stimulating and forceful challenge to the traditional historiography of 19th century physics as a whole. Of interest to undergraduate and postgraduate students of physics or history of science and teachers of physics at school, college or university levels.