The Science of Leonardo

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Leonardo da Vinci’s groundbreaking scientific contributions remained largely unrecognized during his lifetime. Acclaimed scientist and bestselling author Fritjof Capra reveals that Leonardo can be seen as the unacknowledged “father of modern science.” By examining over 6,000 pages of Leonardo’s notebooks, Capra illustrates how Leonardo approached scientific knowledge with an artist's perspective. His studies spanned living and nonliving forms, from architecture and human anatomy to water turbulence and grass growth, establishing the empirical, systematic observation of nature—now known as the scientific method. Leonardo's scientific pursuits were remarkably diverse. He analyzed bird flight patterns to design early human flying machines and applied his understanding of weights, levers, and forces to develop military weapons and defenses, earning recognition as a leading military engineer. His investigations into optics, light, and the human circulatory system further showcased his genius. His expertise in hydraulics led to designs for Milan's infrastructure, employing principles still relevant to modern city planning. Despite being a mechanical innovator, Leonardo's worldview was organic and ecological, making his science remarkably relevant today. Enhanced with fifty sepia-toned illustrations, this work provides a fresh and significant portrayal of a monumental figure in science and the arts.