50 Years Ago

The turnover of endogenous protein is known to be of great importance in the differentiation of micro-organisms. For one thing, it can provide raw material for the synthesis of enzymes and other proteins that will allow growth to continue in a changed environment ... Recent results obtained by N. S. Willets...have added significantly to understanding of the mechanism of protein turnover ... The elucidation ... offers intriguing possibilities for future experimentation, and will be vital to a fuller understanding of processes of differentiation in living cells.

From Nature 27 May 1967

100 Years Ago

What is Instinct? Some Thoughts on Telepathy and Subconsciousness in Animals. By C. Bingley Newland — Mr Newland, as sportsman and field naturalist ... has ventured on a line of interpretation where verification is impossible. His study of adaptive behaviour has led him to the conclusion that “the marvellous precision and fitness of these actions can only be attributed to Omniscience manifesting in the creature.” ... he tells us that “the creatures involved make no tentative experiments, but the perception of how and when to act comes to them subconsciously.” But it is not exactly their own subconscious mind that operates; it is a “subconscious principle directly transmitted from the 'mainspring' — All-Mind.” The life-principle (soul) of the insect or other members of the animal world is a centre of subconsciousness, temporarily set apart, but ever “in touch” with the All-Conscious. Hence their infallibility! Mr Newland is altogether too metaphysical.

From Nature 24 May 1917 Footnote 1