James Hannam studied physics in Oxford and Cambridge and then earned a PhD in the history of science. This book has one simple thesis: that modern science owes its beginnings to the philosophers, theologians and the Catholic Church of the middle ages, even with their weaknesses and deficiencies.
One very positive feature of this work is that the author dispels one myth after another about the Middle Ages and begining modern times: about the Inquisition, the role of the Church, the Galileo affair, etc. Hannam exposed the prejudices and the misinformation that are typical so that the truth about these issues becomes patent. The work seems to be a defense of the Church against these prejudices. Hannam, however, is quite open about the mistakes of certain characters of history even if they be high in the Church hierarchy. But his treatment is very respectful.
C.M. (2013)