Introduction

Abstract

Jesuit scholars have pursued studies in mathematics and science since the founding of the order. Authors in this issue discuss the work on magnetic declination by the Jesuit polymath Athanasius Kircher, the reform of Spanish naval education using the treatise on naval warfare by the Jesuit Paul Hoste, the Jesuit contributions to the Japanese clock-making industry, the dissemination of scientific knowledge through the Jesuit journal Brotéria, the Jesuit Erich Wasmann’s attempts to grapple with Darwinian evolution, Jesuit contributions to understanding the natural environment of India, and the many accomplishments of the Jesuit-run Vatican Observatory.