Sfetcu, Nicolae (2025). ”The Books on the History of Science: Global Evolution, Romanian Contributions, and Perspectives”, in Index Academic, I 2025, DOI: 10.58679/IA18613, https://www.indexacademic.ro/pdf/the-books-on-the-history-of-science/

 

Abstract

The field of history of science has evolved from a niche scholarly pursuit into a robust, global discipline. This article traces the development of books about the history of science – from early chronicles of scientific achievement to modern, critical analyses – examining their historical evolution, present state, and future directions. We highlight key intellectual themes (such as the internalist vs. externalist debate, the relationship between science and society, and the recent push for decolonizing the history of science) and the parallel evolution of publishing practices (academic presses, translations, and digital formats). While offering a global overview, we place special emphasis on Romanian contributions and developments, illustrating how Romanian scholars both influenced and mirrored international trends. Major historiographical shifts are discussed, including the transition from celebratory, Eurocentric narratives to more contextual and inclusive approaches. We also analyze how the publishing of history of science has changed – from early academic treatises to contemporary open-access digital monographs – and explore future trends in disseminating historical scholarship. By examining past and present practices, the article sheds light on the future of history of science books, emphasizing increasing interdisciplinarity and accessibility.

Keywords: books, history of science, science, Romania, Romanian Academy, evolution

 

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