Setting the Scene

Abstract

In setting the scene, the wide varienty of activities pursued at the RI is outlined. Its uniqueness as a centre of learning and advancement of knowledge is illustrated with reference to the extraordinary skills as natural philosophers and expositors of two of the greatest scientists who have ever lived: Humphry Davy and his successor, Michael Faraday. They each made transformative discoveries, which changed the way people lived. Faraday invented the dynamo, the transformer and a means of generating continuous electricity (by extracting it from magnetism). The role of mathematics in everyday life, as well as popular lectures for young people are a feature of the activites of the RI. In 1825, Faraday introduced the RI Christmas Lectures for young children, when he gave his monumental ‘The Chemical History of a Candle’. Such lectures are still broadcast in the UK and in places like Tokyo.