Date of Award
Spring 5-13-2014
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of arts (BA)
Department
Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
First Advisor
Michael Kucher
Second Advisor
Aaron Cheak
Abstract
The subject of alchemy is often only relegated to a footnote of the history of modern chemistry. When framed as a discussion of the history of ideas and mankind attempting to understand their position in the universe, the language of alchemy is seen present in the writings of ancient Greece to 20th century counterculture. But how did this obscure art survive such a long journey over time and space? This paper explores alchemy as a meme (as defined by Richard Dawkins) that changed over time to fit the needs of its proponents. We find that the ideas in alchemy had established a relationship with astrology, Greek gods, Christianity, The scientific revolution, and cultural rebellion through a succession of historical thinkers.
Recommended Citation
Hutchinson, Ryan J., "The Memetic Evolution of Alchemy From Zosimos to Timothy Leary" (2014). History Undergraduate Theses. 11.
https://digitalcommons.tacoma.uw.edu/history_theses/11
Included in
Ancient Philosophy Commons, Cultural History Commons, Medieval History Commons, Metaphysics Commons, New Religious Movements Commons