AD HOC (Association for the Discussion of the History of Chemistry) is a group dedicated to the history of chemistry. While our main focus is historical, we also consider the philosophical, sociological, public and educational dimensions of chemistry.
AD HOC has been meeting in various configurations since the summer of 2004, first at UCL and then also in Cambridge since 2010. Since 2008 our activities have been generously supported by the Society for the History of Alchemy and Chemistry (SHAC).
This term we will be continue with the format of online discussion meetings. The focus will be on the latest work on the history of early chemistry and alchemy, and each time we will be joined by the author herself or himself in the discussion.
We will be meeting on Mondays at 5.00–6.30pm. Please contact Hasok Chang (hc372) if you would like to be on the mailing list of the group. Those on the list will receive the links for joining the online meetings, the exact specification or copies of the readings, and all updates on future activities.
Lent Term 2021
| 1 February | Discussion of Jennifer Rampling (Princeton University), The Experimental Fire: Inventing English Alchemy, 1300–1700 |
| 15 February | Discussion of Marina Banchetti (Florida Atlantic University), The Chemical Philosophy of Robert Boyle |
| 8 March | Discussion of Michael Bycroft (University of Warwick), 'Gems and the Chemical Revolution' |