Lavoisier, Priestley, and the Discovery of Oxygen

Abstract

In the last number of this journal my friend Mr. Tomlinson has criticised my observations on the respective claims of Lavoisier and Priestley to the discovery of oxygen. Without examining, or attempting to refute one of my arguments, and without the citation of any warrant, or authority, he has stated his opinions with an asseveration worthy of a 15th century Professor of Dogmatic Theology, His letter consists of five general statements, and nine dogmatic assertions. I have endeavoured to show that of the former, two are self-evident truths, or at least universally admitted conclusions, while the remaining three are misstatements; and that of the latter five are completely erroneous, while three are open to question, and one is correct.