This article aims to contribute to the understanding of seventeenth-century chemistry, especially of aspects of the theories of matter presented in the works of Francis Bacon (1561-1626) and Robert Boyle (1627-1691). These authors, considered proponents of the experimental philosophy of the modern scientific revolution these authors can enrich our understanding of the theoretical and historical origins of modern chemistry. We will discuss how their notions of form gradually cease to have a metaphysical meaning and gain a more embodied and material status, thus contributing to the development of a more operational and experimental science. Since both of these English authors make use of a concept of active matter, we will see here the importance of the dialogue of their theories of matter with Paracelsist chemistry.
Bacon; Boyle; Paracelsus; Corpuscularism; Form; Spirit; Experimental philosophy; Texture; Matter