Johan Frederik Hennert, wiskundige en filosoof te Utrecht aan het eind der achttiende eeuw

Abstract

Johan Frederik Hennert, mathematician and philosopher in Utrecht, end eighteenth century J.F. Hennert was professor of mathematics, astronomy and philosophy in Utrecht from 1764 till 1804. He was born in Berlin in 1733. After studying in Berlin (with Euler) and Paris, he settled in the Netherlands. His publications in mathematics and astronomy show that he was well informed about the recent developments in these fields and that he was able to produce modest but decent research. His didactical ideas in mathematics and philosophy were quite modern and led to some controversy over his teaching. His strong Orangist conviction involved him in political trouble during the short period of patriot rule in Utrecht 1786-87. The article presents a sketch of his work, his career and his lively personality.