Definition
Steven A. Farber (born 1960) is an American historian of science, author, and academic. He is a professor of history at Johns Hopkins University and a senior researcher in the Department of History of Science and Technology.
Overview
Farber’s scholarship focuses on the historical development of genetics, evolutionary theory, and the cultural reception of scientific ideas. He has published several monographs and edited volumes, including The Enlightenment of Evolution: The Creation of a New World View (2003) and The Invention of the Modern Mind (2023). His work often examines the interplay between scientific concepts and broader social, religious, and philosophical contexts. Farber has served as the editor of the journal Isis and has held leadership positions within professional societies such as the History of Science Society.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Steven” derives from the Greek Stephanos, meaning “crown” or “garland.” “Farber” is a surname of Germanic origin, historically an occupational name meaning “dyer” (from the German Färber). The middle initial “A.” stands for “Arthur,” reflecting a common naming convention in Anglophone contexts.
Characteristics
- Academic Position: Professor of History, Johns Hopkins University (Department of History of Science and Technology).
- Research Interests: History of genetics, evolutionary biology, scientific ideas in cultural discourse, intellectual history of the Enlightenment.
- Publications: Author of multiple peer‑reviewed books and articles; editor of the scholarly journal Isis (2015–2020).
- Professional Service: Past president of the History of Science Society (2020–2022); frequent organizer of interdisciplinary conferences on science and society.
- Public Engagement: Contributor to popular media outlets, delivering lectures and interviews on the relevance of historical perspectives to contemporary scientific debates.
Related Topics
- History of genetics
- Evolutionary theory in the Enlightenment
- History of science societies (e.g., History of Science Society)
- Academic publishing in the history of science (e.g., Isis journal)
- Intellectual history of the 18th and 19th centuries.