NOTES 



The British Association 



The meeting of the British Association held last autumn in 

 Manchester was notable for the curtailment of the accustomed 

 social side of the proceedings, as a consequence of the war. 

 Whilst this innovation doubtless affected adversely the numbers 

 of members and their friends attending the open meetings and 

 functions, it does not seem to have greatly lessened the attend- 

 ance at the sectional meetings. Instead, the interest displayed 

 in these sectional addresses and discussions was of the standard 

 of former years. Naturally many of the younger generation 

 of scientists were absent on patriotic duty ; some, we regret to 

 record, have lost their lives in the service of their country. The 

 great lesson of the war was reflected in many of the addresses 

 which were delivered at the meeting. Organisation of the nation 

 supplied as a general theme the Organisation of Science. 



In inaugurating the meeting, the President, Prof. Schuster, 

 chose as the text of his address the common aims of science 

 and humanity. His discourse was a closely reasoned analysis 

 of the motives compelling the study of science and the 

 pursuit of knowledge. The President called to his aid the 

 attitudes of the outstanding men of philosophy in all countries 

 and ages. Much of the current self-depreciation of our national 

 lack of organisation is due to the confusion as to what are the 

 characteristics of true organisation, that modification which 

 casts aside discipline and substitutes co-operation. To say 

 that a nation which has acquired and maintained an Empire 

 and conducts a large trade in every part of the world is deficient 

 in organising power is an absurdity. The utilitarian drum 

 must, however, not be beaten too loudly and scientists must 

 not lose sight of the idealistic side, even if events of the moment 

 seem to drive us in the other direction. For a time material 

 advantages may seem to monopolise the view, but the love of 

 truth and intellectual freedom will inevitably reassert themselves 

 in advancing civilisation. 



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