Goethean science is often characterised as a qualitative approach to science. What exactly this is supposed to mean is rarely spelt out, but generally implied is some kind of opposition to quantitative or mathematical approaches to science. Viewing Goethean science in opposition to mathematics may certainly be helpful for gaining an initial understanding of what it is, but taking this distinction as essential impedes not only a deeper understanding, but also its subsequent development. 

 In the first half of this talk we will compare the polar structures of colour and space to show that connecting Goethe’s colour studies to nineteenth century developments in mathematics, specifically projective geometry, can enrich our understanding of polarity. In the second part of this talk we will compare sequences generated by geometrical transformation and plant development to show that the practice of projective geometry can help sensitise us to the metamorphosis of plants. 

Dr Troy Vine, Associate Researcher for the Field Centre, Humboldt University of Berlin

Venue: The Field Centre

Entrance: £ donation on the door