Publisher's Synopsis
This text is a lucid study of the history and philosophy of the various 19th century theories on emission and absorption of radiation. Although the theme belongs primarily to history of physics, the book also discusses, through a series of digressions, problems inherent in physics, methodology, metaphysics, philosophy of science and philosophy in general (and at times even psychology of scientiests). A philosopher of science, highly competent in physics and in history of science, presents this complex topic - as well as some basic features of modern physics in general - so that is accesible to lay persons as well.
