From Bookbinder to Scientist

Faraday first encountered science in the books he bound as an apprentice. They introduced him to the fascinating world of natural phenomena and to the idea that these phenomena obey divinelyordained laws that we can comprehend. He therefore resolved to study science. What is so impressive is the strength of his resolve for during the next few years he thoroughly prepared himself for a career in science at a time when science offered few openings, particularly for somebody without inherited wealth or contacts. He commenced his studies by reading any scientific works he could find and by attending lectures at the City Philosophical Society. He also attended four of Sir Humphry Davy’s lectures at the Royal Institution, with tickets donated by a customer at the bindery. Moreover, at the City Philosophical Society (see section 3.2) he met another young man, Benjamin Abbott, and they started a regular correspondence with the aim of self-improvement. We see from these letters how Faraday set about improving his mind, his letter-writing skills and his knowledge of chemistry. In the course of this correspondence he commented extensively on the lecturing styles of the lecturers he heard; this critical evaluation of others doubtless paved the way for his own polished performance in the lecture theatre.