THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION 



ADVANCEMENT OF SCIENCE. 



One of the most remarkable features of modern times is the 

 combination of large numbers of individuals representing the 

 whole intelligence of nations, for the express purpose of ad- 

 vancing science by their united efforts, of learning its progress, 

 and of communicating new discoveries. The formation of such 

 associations, is, in itself, an evidence that they were needed. 



It is not every one who is called by his situation in life to 

 assist in extending the bounds of science ; but all mankind have 

 a claim to the blessings and benefits which accrue from its 

 earnest cultivation. The foundation of scientific institutions is 

 an acknowledgment of these benefits, and this acknowledgment 

 proceeding from whole nations may be considered the triumph of 

 mind over empiricism. 



Innumerable are the aids afforded to the means of life, to 

 manufactures, and to commerce, by the truths which assiduous 

 and active inquirers have discovered and rendered capable of 

 practical application. But it is not the mere practical utility of 

 these truths which is of importance. Their influence upon 



