Science over a cup of coffee

Science over a cup of coffee

With scholars adapting new philosophies and rediscovering the classical learning of the East, 17th-century Europe was buzzing with discussions of new ideas in science and philosophy. The hottest debates took place in the coffeehouses. Here, conversation flowed, along with the steaming brew that kept bright minds even more alert.

Trade with the East had only recently brought coffee to cities like Venice and London. In London, Edward Lloyd's coffeehouse became a meeting place for merchants and ship-owners, politicians and scholars. For the price of a cup of coffee, one could hear the great minds of the day discuss the big issues. Coffeehouses became known as 'penny universities'.