National Traits in Science 1

Abstract

THERE are at present three principal currents of scientific work—German, English, and French. The scientific writings of each nationality are characteristic, and, taken as a whole, offer in each case distinctive qualities. German influence is now predominant over the scientific world, as French influence was uppermost during the earlier part of this century; but the sway of Germany over Western thought is far more potent and widespread than was ever that of France. As students once gathered in Paris, so they now flock to Germany; and thence back to their own lands they carry the notions of German science, and labour to extend, imitate, and rival them. Thus German ideas have been spread abroad, and established in foreign countries. This has set a common standard for scientific work, which is accepted in most European countries. German influence is evident by its effects in Switzerland, Russia, Italy, Poland, Belgium, England, and America, and in degrees indicated by the order given: in France, Spain, and Portugal it is hardly noticeable. Holland and the Scandinavian countries have for many years achieved so much and so excellent work that their scientific development may be said to have accompanied rather than to have followed that of Germany.