The Growing Responsibility of Entomology To Human Welfare

Abstract

This historic meeting, the first annual meeting of the new Entomological Society of America, is a happy occasion. The wishes of the majority of our fellow workers have brought together, through consolidation, our two great organizations of the past, the American Association of Economic Entomologists (1889–1952) and the Entomological Society of America (1906–1952), into a single new Society whose interests- and work will cover all phases of entomology. I think it is fitting that such union take place as we enter the second century of professional entomology in this country. In the years that have passed, entomology, under the leadership of the men who founded and promoted our two beloved professional societies, has made its fair share of contributions to our national welfare. As we enter the second half of the twentieth century, with its present great struggle between two strong ideologies for the allegiance of the hearts and minds of men everywhere, we in entomology can share the satisfaction that our greatest contributions to man' s well-being lie in the years ahead. The full realization of this great service rests in a large measure with the members of the Entomological Society of America. I earnestly hope that our dedication to duty will make the profession and our Society truly great partners cooperating with other sciences in serving the welfare of mankind everywhere.