Appletons' Popular Science Monthly, February 1899: Volume LIV, No. 4, February 1899Various
Science
Appletons' Popular Science Monthly, February 1899: Volume LIV, No. 4, February 1899
Various
Science -- Periodicals; Technology -- Periodicals
Sociology and to his Elements of Sociology noticed elsewhere.--ED.
P.S.M.
EVOLUTION AND EDUCATION AGAIN.
_Editor Popular Science Monthly_:
SIR: I have not before this acknowledged your reference to me in a
spirited and instructive editorial that appeared in the December
number of your excellent magazine, because an immediate reply might
have been taken to indicate a desire, on my part, for a controversy,
which I expressly disclaim; and besides, I have desired that the
public might read and consider your views dispassionately. I care but
little for the effect upon myself, if the cause of truth shall be
materially strengthened.
I am not surprised that you refer to me as "ignorant," "negligible,"
etc., because it has for a long time been painfully clear that the
"scientific mind" is exceedingly sensitive, and while much given to
praising forbearance and kindness, still resorts to language
reasonably regarded as abusive. I have always found this to be true,
and the present controversy is no exception to the rule. The "broadly
scientific mind" is, alas! too often narrow and intolerant in treating
opposing views. I do not wish, however, to find fault with the
abuse--it may prove to be good discipline, and is, therefore,
thankfully accepted; but I do very much desire to correct a mistaken
inference that you drew from my reference to Herbert Spencer. There
are some typographical errors in the quotations that you make, which,
however, do not change the meaning. Allow me then to say that I have a
great regard for Mr. Spencer; that I have read his writings with much
profit, and that I have never failed to accord him full credit for the
work he has accomplished. That I can not understand and accept all his
teachings does not lessen my respect for him.
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