debATeS · Bridging the Objective and the Subjective: The Role of Helmholtz’s Scientific Instruments in the Emergence of Vision Science

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Project objective

The debATeS project investigates the role of Helmholtz’s scientific instruments in shaping vision science in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While Helmholtz’s contributions have been widely examined through textual sources, the material dimension, particularly the use, circulation, and reception of the instruments he devised, remains underexplored. debATeS pursues two core R&I objectives. First, it will provide a systematic study of the use, refinement, and reception of Helmholtz’s instruments across European and American laboratories. Second, it will develop a categorization of “failed instruments.” Beyond technical issues, the project will analyze different forms of failure in both influential and lesser-known devices. The broader aim is twofold: to develop a conceptual framework for classifying instrumental failure, which is currently lacking yet central to debates in material culture, and to demonstrate how failed instruments yield new insights into scientific practice and the evolution of disciplines. By combining textual and philosophical analysis with material studies and experimental replication, debATeS will produce an innovative and transferable typology of failed instruments, with relevance for the history and philosophy of science as well as for museum practices. Results will be disseminated through publications, conferences, webinars, and a final workshop. Outreach will include the production of videos, a temporary exhibition, and educational activities. Through its interdisciplinary methodology, innovation, and strong public engagement, debATeS will contribute to Horizon Europe priorities by strengthening cultural heritage and highlighting the pivotal role of material culture in expanding knowledge and inclusion. The project comprises an outgoing phase at Indiana University Bloomington, United States, under the supervision of Prof J. Schickore, and a return phase at the University of Catania, Italy, under the supervision of Prof L. Ingaliso.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI CATANIA · CataniaCoordinatorItaly
• THE TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY · BloomingtonUnited States

Links

• View on CORDIS
• DOI: 10.3030/101269099