Entomology: A Perspective

Abstract

Webster's dictionary, as you might expect, provides us with a number of definitions for the word “perspective.” The one that I prefer reads as follows: “(The) capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance.” This definition brings to my mind a quote by Edward Storer. “Each one of us has within him a whole world of things; each man of us his own special world; and can we ever come to an understanding if I put in the words I utter, the sense and value of things as I see them, while you listen to me (you) inevitably translate them according to the conception of things each one of you have within himself.” We see things the way we wish to see things based on our own experience and/or our own philosophy. So each one of us then, has his or her own perspective of what entomology is today and what it should be in the future. If we were to make a list of the perspectives that each one of us has, there would be many similarities among us and, as well, there would be many differences. This is certainly more true in diverse areas of science like entomology. As Edward Storer said, I can tell you what is in my mind and I can tell you what I see that is personally important, and you in turn, may have a different concept in your own mind. A measure of diversity to be sure; and indeed healthy. Having said that, allow me now to present my perspective of entomology today and in the future. I do not pretend to stand before you this morning to attempt to change anyone's mind, but rather to ask the questions that hopefully will promote the thinking that our science needs today and will need tomorrow.