ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT. 61 



Weismann. A host of others have done much by way of demonstration and 

 interpretation. 



In developing scientific tliought so much depends upon the method. 

 Tlie experimental method of investigation of the truths of biology as used 

 today is worthy of special mention. In the further use of this method, we 

 may expect much in the fields of heredity and evolution, changes in the 

 environment of organisms, studies in fertilization, and on animal behavior. 



If the discovery of these truths meant simply intellectual achievements, 

 1 am sure they would not impress the world very much, but most of them have 

 a practical application for the benefit of mankind. Man must more and more 

 be considered the most important creature. 



He can and must be developed as a symmetrical being. Through biological 

 study, disease is being checked, lives are being spared, eugenics is playing a 

 part in the evolution of the race, temperance and sanitation are being placed 

 on a sure foundation, and even peace ethics and religion can be advanced 

 in their beneficial influence upon the race. 



In conclusion, may I pay a word of tribute to the scientists of the world 

 who, quietly in laboratory and library, unassuming for the most part, not 

 anxious to have their names heralded abroad but diligent in their search 

 for truth and when found to gladly and unselfishly give the benefits to the 

 world usually "without money and without price," sometimes to an ungrate- 

 ful world, but usually due honor comes in time. I am also glad to record 

 that the scientific men and women of Indiana and especially of the Indiana 

 Academy of Science have contribute-d no small part in the advancement of 

 the scientific, thought of the world. 



The mission of science may be expressed in the words of the sacred writer: 

 "Man bindeth the floods from overflowing and the thing that is hid bringeth 

 he forth to light." 



