The Greeks who built the framework of logical argument were the predecessors of many famous scientists of centuries ago. Through the years up to the middle of the nineteenth century science fitfully evolved and became progressively sweeping in its scope. During the latter half of the century the rush for knowledge became greater and many then undeveloped sciences graduated into comprehensive and classified subjects. Indeed, towards the end of the nineteenth century, Victorian scientists regarded the search for truth as practically over, all that was necessary being closer research on lines already laid out. Their complacency was soon shattered, however, by a brilliant young man named Einstein who introduced the conception of relativity, while Rutherford, Wilson, and others began to explore the mysteries of the atom. At once a field vaster than any yet known was waiting to be explored and their goal was again an immense way off.
But practical science has gone from one triumph to another with huge advances in medicine, machinery, psychology and every other branch of life.
And so the advances made during the last fifty years are obvious, and yet what is fifty years compared with eternity? A mere tick of a clock; what will another fifty or five hundred years bring? Obvious conclusions such as penetrations into outer space, races living entirely on synthetic products come readily to mind.
How are we today fitting ourselves for such a future? Well may we ask ourselves this. The average person is practically unconscious of the changes around him. We cannot expect him to master De Broglie's wave mechanics, but we can expect him to take the trouble to grasp the broad principles of scientific knowledge. Indeed if we were science-conscious we would see that machines and cheaper foods are in reality a boon, not an evil, if they are properly controlled. Nor would we indulge in the almost suicidal policy of using up all our natural resources merely for temporary profit.
The world must realise what is being done and become capable of looking after itself in the coming scientific age instead of relying on a small select body of scientists.
(Data entered by Judy Bemis)