Editorial

'A Colledge for the promoting of Physico-Mathematicall Experimental Learning' was founded on 28 November 1660 by 12 individuals who met after a lecture by Christopher Wren (1632–1723) at Gresham College in London. They suggested a further 41 names for inclusion of whom 15 were physicians. On 12 December 1660, it was agreed that the membership be limited to 45 but with barons, Fellows of the Royal College of Physicians, and professors of mathematics, physic and natural philosophy based in Oxford or Cambridge being eligible as supernumeraries. John Wilkins (1614–72) acted initially as chairman. The 'Colledge' received its Royal Charter from Charles II on 15 July 1662, being renamed the 'Royal Society for improving Natural Knowledge'. These events were the culmination of activities that had begun in the 1640s. But where and to whom the credit lies is disputed. John Wallis (1616–1703) who, as one of the founding Fellows of the Royal Society was directly involved, writes that in about 1645, at a time when academic life was disrupted in 'both Universities' (Oxford and Cambridge), he became involved with a group interested in natural philosophy. They met each week to discuss and carry out experiments. Mention of divinity, state-affairs and current news was prohibited.

https://ift.tt/2LvHpJg