Essays on the Endowment of Research

Abstract

IT is to the untiring exertions of Dr. Appleton in the cause which is here pleaded, that we are indebted for this valuable combination of essays. The eminence and competency of the writers give it an overwhelming force of authority and reason. The list of contributors is as follows:—The Rector of Lincoln College, Oxford, Mr. James Cotton, late Fellow of Queen's College, Dr. Appleton, Fellow of St. John's College, Mr. Sayce, Fellow of Queen's College, Mr. Henry Sorby, F.R.S., President of the Microscopical Society, Mr. Cheyne, Fellow of Balliol, one of the company for the revision of the Bible, Mr. Thiselton Dyer, late of Christ Church, Assistant-Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew, Mr. Nettleship, Fellow of Corpus Christi College. These eight writers treat of various aspects of the Endowment of Research —such as the need for it, the applicability of college revenues to the purpose, the incompatibility of teaching and research—in ten essays. No doubt more remains to be written on the subject, more will have to be said, and what is said will need to be said a great many times before the public—even its more intelligent section—comprehend the importance of research or the necessity for its endowment. The present volume may be taken as a fair statement of some of the most important arguments in the matter, and should furnish the starting point for a determined and unwearying effort permanently to affect public opinion in the right direction. Widely as we should wish to see this book read amongst the laymen of science, the Philistines and those who prophesy to them, politicians and professional reformers, it will certainly be found quite as valuable as by any of these, by men of science. Men of science will find in the present volume data and suggestions which should aid them greatly, at this critical moment, to determine what they will urge upon the government, as the fit relationship between the State and scientific research.

Essays on the Endowment of Research.

By Various Writers. (London: King and Co., 1876.)