History Lab: Through the Lens of Disability

Modern science relies on vision and not just the metaphorical kind. Since the Scientific Revolution, natural philosophers and scientists have worked to develop tools and knowledge that are almost entirely dependent on what we can see.

But is vision necessarily any more reliable or less subjective than our other senses when it comes to understanding the world around us? Why do we privilege sight in the history and modern creation of science, and what happens when we learn things using other senses?

Help us explore how the experiences and contributions of scientists who are blind or low vision challenge long-held assumptions about the nature of scientific truth and the many ways of knowing it.
 

About the Series

Join us each summer for History Lab, a series of free monthly seminars taking place from June through August. We’ll explore big questions from science and history that have immediate, real-world implications.
 

We’re Working to Make Our Programming Accessible

Each session of History Lab will have ASL interpretation, braille copies of signage and handouts, and closed-caption technology for presentations. Please contact Zack Biro at 215.873.8203 or zbiro@sciencehistory.org if you need other accommodations.
 

Wheelchair Access

A wheelchair-accessible pedestrian gate is available at our parking-lot entrance on 3rd Street, between Chestnut and Market Streets. A greeter will be waiting before the start of the event to welcome and help direct attendees. The pedestrian gate is unlocked during regular business hours and for events. If you’re traveling by car, drive up to the parking-lot gate, which will open automatically during regular business hours and events. You may park in any open spot marked “Visitor” or in one of two spots reserved for those with disabilities. To enter the building call our receptionist via the intercom at the East Entrance for visitors and staff.