Intersecting Anglo-German Networks in Popular Science and their Functions in the Late Nineteenth Century

Abstract

Anglo-German networks in popular science did to a large extent mirror the internationalism so often evoked by scientists and in scientific research. In fact, they served to intensify transfers between the two countries and invested popular science with transnational characteristics. In so doing, they may be seen to constitute another level of an intricate histoire croisee , adding another piece of the puzzle that makes up the complex story of Anglo-German relations within the larger framework of European and global interrelations in the long nineteenth century. An eager interest in the British or German book market respectively, readerships often pictured as culturally close, gave them a considerable share in popular science networking. A path-breaking new theory might have been developed, such as Darwin's evolutionary theory or new findings in astronomy or chemistry. The organization of the scientific community or scientific education might serve as a model to be emulated. Keywords: Anglo-German networks; British book market; Darwin's evolutionary theory; European relations; German book market; popular science networking; scientific education