Unraveling the hidden electrical fluids: the debate between Nollet, Dutour, and Franklin

• Grant number: 04/13787-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: January 09, 2005
• End date: February 22, 2005
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - History - History of Science
• Principal Investigator: Cibelle Celestino Silva
• Grantee: Cibelle Celestino Silva
• Host Investigator: Ronald Brashear
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, United States

Abstract

The aim of the current proposal is to investigate the debate between Franklin and Nollet on the nature of the electrical fluids, making extensive use of the Nollet-Dutour correspondence, besides the published documentation. This research will attempt to elucidate the strategies used and the difficulties met by contenders, in their endeavors to substatiate their theories and to convert the public to their views. (AU)