Physics
At one time, the term physics had a very broad meaning, roughly synonymous with natural science. The 18th-century Encyclopédia of Diderot and d'Alembert listed under the rubric physique particuliere everything from astronomy and cosmology to meteorology, mineralogy, chemistry, zoology and botany.
This may explain why physics is often seen as a very general field (and by some perhaps considered to be rather imperialist).
Literature:
Mills, J. and Broughton, V. (1998). Bliss bibliographic classification. 2nd ed. Class AY/B: Science and Technology and Physics. London: Bowker-Saur .
See also: Colors;
Birger Hjørland
Last edited: 16-01-2007