Exploratory experiments

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The nineteenth century marked a pivotal era for electromagnetism and electrodynamics, beginning with Hans Christian Ørsted's discovery of the relationship between electricity and magnetism in 1820. This breakthrough spurred extensive research, leading to the emergence of electrodynamics and electromagnetic theory. In response, André-Marie Ampère and Michael Faraday formulated two competing theories, each with distinct approaches and conceptual frameworks. Despite their differences, their contributions catalyzed a technological revolution and initiated a significant debate in physics regarding electrodynamic action-at-a-distance versus field theories. In this foundational study, Friedrich Steinle examines the influential work of Ampère and Faraday, highlighting the critical role of exploratory experimentation in scientific advancement. This phase, responsible for key conceptual innovations, has not been thoroughly explored until now. By focusing on the research practices of Ampère and Faraday—reconstructed from previously unexamined archival materials such as laboratory notes, diaries, and correspondence—this work delves into the historical and epistemological foundations of exploratory experimentation and its vital significance to scientific progress. The study received the 2017 Ungar German Translations Award from the American Translators Association.