The Centre for Logic and Philosophy of Science of the Vrije Universiteit
Brussel (https://clps.research.vub.be) is currently recruiting 5
PhD students for the project titled ‘Contra Isaac Newton: British
Anti-Mathematical Criticism of Newton’s Natural Philosophy and the ‘New
Science’, 1650-c.1750’.
 
Project Description
The dissemination of Isaac Newton’s (1642-1727) natural philosophy and
the ‘new science’ was an intricate and multifaceted process. While
Newton’s ideas and the broader ‘new science’ gained prominence, they
also encountered resistance from various quarters. This research proposal
aims to enhance our understanding of the diffusion of Newton’s natural
philosophical ideas and the broader ‘new science’ more general by
closely examining the resistance they faced. Although recent scholarship
has explored so-called ‘Newtonianism’ and late seventeenth- and
eighteenth-century natural philosophy in Europe, a comprehensive systematic
analysis of the diverse anti-mathematical criticism raised against
Newton’s experimental-mathematical philosophy and that of other natural
philosophers remains conspicuously absent. Generally speaking,
‘anti-mathematicism’ refers to arguments raised against claims that the
application of mathematics in natural philosophy leads to adequate
knowledge of the physical world.
This research proposal delves in to the intriguing history of British
anti-mathematicism, shedding light on two distinct contexts. First, we
embark on a systematic analysis of British anti-mathematical critiques
levelled against Newton’s natural philosophy and the emerging ‘new
science’ within the realm of natural philosophy and philosophy. Four PhD
dissertations will delve into this first context, examining the work of
Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679), Kenelm Digby (1603-1665), Margaret Cavendish
(1623-1673), and George Berkeley (1685-1753) among others. Secondly,
transcending the boundaries of natural philosophy, our aim extends to the
poetic domain. We aim to provide an intricate examination of British
anti-mathematical criticism of Newton’s natural philosophy and the ‘new
science’ within poetry. One PhD dissertation will delve into this second
context. For a more detailed description of the research proposal, feel
free to contact us at steffen.ducheyne@vub.be.
 
Requirements:
 

    Master’s degree: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a
field relevant to the research proposal at the starting date of the
contract.
    Dedicated team player: We seek individuals who are committed team
players.
    Good language skills: Proficiency in both written and spoken English is
essential.
    Knowledge of early modern science or philosophy: Familiarity with the
history of early modern science or philosophy is desirable.
    Analytic and hermeneutical excellence: Outstanding hermeneutical and
analytical skills are expected.
    Latin proficiency (optional): Knowledge of Latin is advantageous for
certain subprojects.

 
Application: Interested applicants should submit their application to steffen.ducheyne@vub.be. The
application package should include:
 

    A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience;
    Transcripts of grades obtained for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees;
    A letter of recommendation that explains the candidate’s skills and
suitability to the project;
    A writing sample (20-30 pages); and,
    A research statement (1-2 pages) that: (a) explains how your past
research aligns with the current research project and (b) outlines your
research plan.

 
Deadline: The application deadline is 30 September 2024. However, the
deadline may be extended until the positions are filled.
 
Starting date: We anticipate a starting date between November 2024 and
January 2025.
 
Position details: The position is for a two-year term which can be renewed
for an additional two years pending a positive evaluation.
 
This research project is funded by the Special Research Fund of the Vrije
Universiteit Brussel.
 
For more information, please contact steffen.ducheyne@vub.be.