Audiobook: Theory of Colours, Preface by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The preface to the first edition addresses the relationship between light and colors, suggesting that rather than reiterating established theories about light, the focus should be on the effects of colors, which are actions of light. It argues that understanding colors can provide insights into light itself, emphasizing that nature communicates through various senses and phenomena, which are interconnected.

The work is divided into three main parts:

1. Outline of a Theory of Colors: This section classifies the many observable color phenomena into leading categories, based on experimental data and theoretical insights. It highlights the importance of theorizing about observations to gain practical knowledge.

2. Examination of the Newtonian Theory: This part critiques Newton's theory of colors, comparing it to an old, obsolete castle that has been continuously patched up but is no longer useful. The aim is to dismantle this outdated theory to make way for new insights and understanding.

3. Historical Account of Early Inquirers and Investigators: This section discusses the history of color theory, asserting that the history of a science is integral to the science itself. It criticizes the Newtonian school for its arrogance and for overlooking earlier, valuable contributions. The author provides materials for a history of the theory of colors, including translations, extracts, comments, and notes, acknowledging the challenges and biases inherent in writing such a history.

A fourth, supplementary part includes revisions, additional essays, and descriptions of apparatuses necessary for future research in color theory. The preface concludes by addressing the limitations of using plates (illustrations) to convey physical phenomena and stresses the importance of direct observation and imagination in understanding nature.

The author requests that readers share any superior knowledge they might have or, if not, make use of the current work in good faith.