A Short History of Biology: a General Introduction to the Study of Living Things

Abstract

WRITERS on the history of science are too often addicted to anecdote, ancestor worship, and undue preoccupation with the blind alleys of scientific inquiry and speculation. Dr. Singer's new book has none, of these defects. He has traced the elucidation of the problems of contemporary biology to their earliest beginnings, keeping the problems rather than individuals to the forefront. Consequently, his book will provide, for many readers with no previous biological knowledge and a predilection for historical studies, an attractive introduction to the science of living matter. In adopting this course, he necessarily discloses his own views on many controversial topics. His perspective is inevitably influenced by what he regards as the most significant contemporary issues. It would therefore be easy for a reviewer to single out many passages for adverse criticism. It would also be an ungrateful act to do so. Few readers will always share all Dr. Singer's opinions. There can be no two opinions concerning Dr. Singer's erudition, the usefulness of this book, and the desirability of making its contents accessible to a wide circle of readers.

A Short History of Biology: a General Introduction to the Study of Living Things.

By Charles Singer. Pp. xxxv + 572. (Oxford: Clarendon Press; London: Oxford University Press, 1931.) 18s. net.