Abstract

Abstract The intellectual atmosphere of late 19th century Britain, in particular the scientific revolution consequent upon Darwin's work, are analysed in relation to the founding of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. The importance of Edinburgh as the chief focus of scientific activity in Scotland and as an international centre are seen as encouraging the establishment of learned societies. The Challenger Office had wide influence; it was partly the widespread interest in travel that brought together numbers of professional people in a geographical context. The composition of the early Society, largely of intellectuals, is contrasted with that of the London Society whose membership then was strongly oriented towards the services and the aristocracy. Key figures in the 1884 founding of the former are discussed.

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