Isaac Newton Mystery Files Forever by National Geography

Summary

This video explores the mysterious life of Sir Isaac Newton, delving into his secretive nature and the burning of his manuscripts before his death. Newton, famous for his work in physics, also secretly studied alchemy and biblical prophecy. The video reveals his obsessive, reclusive tendencies, speculates about his possible Asperger's syndrome, and discusses the contradictions between his scientific genius and his interests in alchemy and theology. Ultimately, Newton is presented as a complex figure whose genius shaped modern science while remaining enigmatic and secretive.

Takeaways

• 📜 Isaac Newton, one of the most famous men of his time, burned many of his manuscripts just weeks before his death, raising questions about what he was trying to hide.
• 🔬 Newton's contributions to science include the discovery of gravity and the development of calculus, but he kept much of his work secret during his lifetime.
• 📚 Newton was not only interested in science; he was also deeply involved in alchemy, a mysterious and controversial practice at the time.
• 🪞 Newton revolutionized telescope design by creating a reflecting telescope that was smaller and more powerful than traditional refracting telescopes, solving issues with chromatic aberration.
• 🌈 One of Newton's key discoveries was that white light is composed of different colors, leading to a better understanding of light and optics.
• ⚔️ Newton had a fierce rivalry with Robert Hooke, a fellow scientist at the Royal Society, who criticized his theories on light. This led to personal conflicts and Newton's temporary withdrawal from publishing.
• 🧑‍🔬 In addition to his scientific pursuits, Newton was obsessed with religious prophecy and the secret codes he believed were hidden in the Bible, spending years studying these subjects.
• ⚗️ Newton's work in alchemy, which was seen as unscientific by many of his contemporaries, was kept secret and may have influenced his other scientific discoveries.
• 🔒 Newton was highly secretive, especially about his alchemical and religious studies, likely fearing persecution or damage to his reputation.
• 🧠 Some modern experts believe Newton may have had Asperger syndrome, which could explain his intense focus, social difficulties, and the contradictions in his personality and interests.

Q & A

Why did Isaac Newton burn some of his manuscripts before his death?

Newton burned some of his manuscripts before his death to maintain secrecy over his controversial and possibly heretical work, especially in the areas of alchemy and theology. Researchers suspect that the papers contained sensitive ideas, possibly even more extreme than what he left behind.

What were some of the major scientific discoveries Newton made while isolated during the plague?

During his isolation from the plague in 1665, Newton made several groundbreaking discoveries, including the invention of calculus, important findings about the nature of light, and the development of his theory of gravity.

Why did Newton keep his work secret for many years before publishing it?

Newton was known to be very secretive and often worked obsessively without sharing his findings. He kept his work secret for years because he had little interest in sharing it with others, preferring to develop his ideas in isolation. His secretive nature was also likely driven by a distrust of others and a desire for control over his discoveries.

How did Robert Hooke's reaction to Newton's work impact their relationship?

Robert Hooke's harsh criticism of Newton's theory of light in 1672 caused significant tension between the two scientists. Hooke's negative review deeply upset Newton, leading to a bitter exchange of letters. Newton eventually withdrew from public debate and declared that he would no longer publish his work, severely straining their relationship.

What was revolutionary about Newton’s reflecting telescope?

Newton's reflecting telescope was revolutionary because it used mirrors instead of lenses, allowing it to be much smaller and avoid the chromatic aberration problem that plagued traditional refracting telescopes. This improvement made it more efficient and easier to use for observing celestial objects.

What role did alchemy play in Newton’s life and scientific work?

Alchemy was a major, secret obsession for Newton. He devoted much time to experimenting with alchemical processes, believing that they could reveal hidden knowledge about nature. His work in alchemy was not publicly known during his lifetime, as alchemy was considered disreputable by many, but it strongly influenced his thinking, including his ideas about light and matter.

How did Newton’s approach to science differ from the norms of the Scientific Revolution?

Newton’s approach to science was highly secretive and personal, which contrasted with the norms of the Scientific Revolution, where transparency and collaboration were encouraged. While most scientists of the time shared their work openly, Newton preferred to keep his discoveries to himself until he felt ready to reveal them.

What evidence is there to suggest that Newton may have had Asperger's Syndrome?

Some experts, such as Professor Michael Fitzgerald, believe that Newton may have had Asperger's Syndrome due to his poor social relationships, obsessive focus on his work, lack of empathy, and repetitive behavior. His intense ability to hyperfocus on problems and his reclusive lifestyle are consistent with characteristics of Asperger's.

How did Edmund Halley influence Newton’s work on gravity?

Edmund Halley played a pivotal role in reviving Newton's interest in mainstream science by asking him to mathematically prove the relationship between planetary orbits and an inverse square law. This request eventually led Newton to produce his groundbreaking work, the 'Principia Mathematica,' where he formalized the laws of motion and universal gravitation.

Why is Newton’s 'Principia Mathematica' considered one of the greatest scientific works in history?

Newton’s 'Principia Mathematica' is considered one of the greatest scientific works because it laid the foundations for classical mechanics, formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation, and revolutionized the way we understand the physical universe. It remains one of the most influential books in the history of science.