Drawing Knowledge from Scientific Instruments - Dr. Marvin Bolt
The Thomistic Institute
Dr. Marvin Bolt explores the history and epistemology of scientific instruments, arguing that they are not merely passive tools but active embodiments of knowledge that require hands-on engagement to fully understand. This lecture was given on July 16th, 2026, at Dominican House of Studies. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the Speaker: Marvin Bolt is an expert in the history of science and astronomy who served as the first Curator of Science and Technology at The Corning Museum of Glass until his 2020 retirement. Prior to this role, he managed extensive historical collections and curated major astronomy exhibitions at Chicago's Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum. Throughout his career, he expanded scientific collections, curated prominent exhibitions, and earned a Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame while actively engaging in teaching and publishing. Keywords: Scientific Instruments, History Of Science, Epistemology, Natural Philosophy, Scientific Revolution
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Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
