100 YEARS AGO

All inquirers have perceived that great men are of two types, and it would conduce to clear thinking if we could accustom ourselves to classify them under different names... The first class, to which I should prefer to restrict the name genius, may be described primarily as men of fine, delicate, sensitive, impressionable constitution, and strong, restless innate tendencies which appear early in life, as a rule, and take their own shape. These men work energetically, often at high pressure, and in general die comparatively young... The second class I would describe as men of talent. When preeminent they exhibit striking aptitude in learning and in imitation, and develop extraordinary powers of work... In nature there is great variety, and genius, so far, is one of the varieties which often recur, but scarcely ever survive even for two generations. It is a rare and delicate thing, and the utmost we can hope for it is that endeavours may be made to collect and preserve it like some hot-house plant, in order that it may suggest combinations which men of talent may put to practical account. The position of the second type in the struggle for existence is beyond doubt. The stability of a country and its place among the nations depend upon the number and ability of men of this stamp.

From Nature 5 March 1903.

50 YEARS AGO

There has been a progressive increase, both absolute and relative, in the proportion of old people in the population, this increase being the result of the decline in infant and young adult mortality produced by the medical and social advances that have been made possible by the application of the scientific method during the past century. As a result of this, more old people must be supported by a diminished proportion of wage earners. There is a corresponding increase in the numbers of elderly invalids to be cared for, who are suffering from the degenerative disease of old age which medical treatment may ameliorate, but not cure. Meanwhile, the expense of medical treatment, especially hospital treatment, has risen enormously and continues to rise, and it has been suggested that the community is faced with a gloomy prospect of unlimited 'medicated survival' to be met by diminishing resources.

From Nature 7 March 1953.