Abstract
Since the dawn of history natural philosophy has been one of the greatest builders. The foundations for the great superstructure of our
modern civilization is laid deep in this ancient science. Many years ago the following quotation of Herbert
Spencer appeared:
We may say that in the family of knowledges, science is the household drudge, who in obscurity hides unrecognized perfection. To her has been committed a ll of the work; by her skill, intelligence and devotion have all of the conveniences and gratifications been obtained and while ceaselessly occupied ministering to the rest, she has been kept in the background, that her
haughty sisters might flaunt their fripperies before
the eyes of the world. The parallel holds still farther, for we are coming to the denouement when the positions will be reversed and while these haughty sisters sink into merited neglect, science proclaimed as highest alike in worth and beauty, will reign supreme.1
Spencer’s vision was correct, for today science is literally in the pilots seat. Without fear of contradiction it may be said that science has proved itself to be one of the greatest servants of mankind. During the last quarter of a century, the greatest scientific era of the world has made itself manifest. The advent of the airplane which has made travel over thousands of miles a matter of a few hours rather than days, and the radio, which has made communication instantaneous, are hut two of the many thousands of ways in which science has changed our everyday life.
It was none other than Albert Einstein, who said
that freedom from the necessity for servants, due to mechanical aids, Is perhaps the best feature of American life.
Perhaps the eminent scientist is somewhat cynical when
viewing life and customs of the western world, nevertheless, that Is the feature of our civilization, which is most striking to those who visit this country from a foreign land.
Interspersed with the good there is always some bad and science is no exception; Along with the many aids to humanity have come also the destructive features. What
under certain conditions is a blessing, is a curse under
different circumstances. Paraphrasing the Good Book, it may
be said that science is an humble servant but a terrible
m aster.
Any branch of knowledge that has such an influence
upon the everyday life of the people is .certainly worthy of some consideration from the educator of the youth of the nation.
