Dr. Jessica Riskin is a renowned historian of science and professor at Stanford University. Her work focuses on the history of science and technology, particularly in the areas of mechanism and materialism in the early modern period. With a strong background in the history of philosophy and science, Riskin has made significant contributions to our understanding of the development of scientific thought and its relationship to technological innovation.
Academic Background and Research Interests
Dr. Riskin received her Ph.D. in History and Philosophy of Science from the University of California, Berkeley. Her dissertation, which explored the concept of machine in the 17th and 18th centuries, laid the foundation for her future research on the intersection of science, technology, and philosophy. At Stanford University, Riskin teaches courses on the history of science, technology, and medicine, as well as the philosophy of science and technology. Her research interests include the history of mechanism, materialism, and animal spirits in the early modern period, with a particular focus on the work of scientists such as René Descartes and Julien Offray de La Mettrie.
Key Publications and Awards
Dr. Riskin has published numerous articles and books on the history of science and technology. Her book, Science in the Age of Sensibility: The Sentimental Empiricists of the French Enlightenment, won the 2003 Pfizer Award from the History of Science Society. The book explores the relationship between science and sentiment in the 18th century, highlighting the role of empathy and imagination in scientific inquiry. Riskin’s other notable publications include The Restless Clock: A History of the Centuries-Long Argument over What Makes Living Things Tick, which examines the history of mechanism and vitalism in the life sciences.
| Publication | Award |
|---|---|
| Science in the Age of Sensibility | 2003 Pfizer Award |
| The Restless Clock | 2016 PROSE Award in History of Science, Medicine, and Technology |
Teaching and Mentorship
Dr. Riskin is a dedicated teacher and mentor, known for her ability to engage students in complex and nuanced discussions about the history of science and technology. Her courses at Stanford University cover a range of topics, from the Scientific Revolution to the history of artificial intelligence. Riskin has also supervised numerous undergraduate and graduate research projects, providing guidance and support to students as they explore the intersection of science, technology, and society.
Current Research Projects
Dr. Riskin is currently working on several research projects, including a study of the history of robotics and a comparative analysis of mechanistic and vitalistic approaches to understanding living systems. Her research is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the Stanford Humanities Center. Riskin’s work continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of the complex and multifaceted relationship between science, technology, and society.
- History of Robotics: a study of the development of robotic systems and their relationship to human society
- Comparative Analysis of Mechanism and Vitalism: a comparative study of mechanistic and vitalistic approaches to understanding living systems
What is the main focus of Dr. Riskin’s research?
+Dr. Riskin’s research focuses on the history of science and technology, particularly in the areas of mechanism and materialism in the early modern period.
What is the title of Dr. Riskin’s award-winning book?
+Dr. Riskin’s award-winning book is titled Science in the Age of Sensibility: The Sentimental Empiricists of the French Enlightenment.
