Explaining Photosynthesis Models of Biochemical Mechanisms, 1840-1960

“Explaining Photosynthesis

is an exceptionally clear book, with prose that is supplemented with very helpful diagrams. … examination of the progressive elucidation of the mechanisms of photosynthesis focuses on particular research communities without neglecting to at the same time consider the importance of individual contributions.” (Stéphane Tirard, History and Philosophy of the Life Sciences, Vol. 41, June, 2019)

“Kärin … gives a much needed historical and philosophical account of one of the major research projects in modern plant sciences. … Nickelsen boldly attempts to find some bridge between the history of science and the philosophy of science by identifying heuristic strategies based on her historical representation of photosynthesis research. … she provides not only a history of photosynthesis research, but also a critical history that seeks to extract more generalizable philosophical and sociological lessons from the subject.” (Andre M. Hahn, Philosophy & Theory in Biology, Vol. 18, 2016)