Science has brought about revolutionary changes in our understanding of ourselves and the natural world, which have acted as major drivers of our culture and civilisation. This scientific knowledge has in turn brought about revolutions in the ways that we live and in the technologies that support society. A case can be made that science is the most revolutionary activity of humankind.

This lecture celebrates the launch of Oxford’s Centre for the History of Science, Medicine, and Technology, a new research centre at the University of Oxford that builds on the broad chronological and geographical expertise of historians of science, medicine, and technology at the university’s various museums, colleges, and faculties. Co-hosted by Oxford’s Centre for Global History, the lecture will probe how knowledge and technologies have transcended and transformed national boundaries.