Science and the Nation. Essays by Cambridge Graduates. Edited by
A. C. Seward. (Cambridge University Press. 55. net.)—To show the importance of pure science, and its relation to applied science, a number of Cambridge men have written these short popular essays dealing with their special subjects. Thus Professor Biffen discusses " Systematized Plant-Breeding," explaining how patient research into Mendel's theories has led to the improvement of our wheat crops both in quality and in quantity. Professor Wood describes the solution of " An Agricultural War Problem "—namely, the proper feeding of cattle when their foreign- foodstuffs are cut off, by a careful scientific investigation of the food- values of ground-nut, palm-nut, and soya bean as well as the familiar linseed, beans, and grain. Professor Hobson puts in a striking plea on behalf of pure mathematics, and Mr. W. H. R. Rivers shows the immense value of even an elementary knowledge of anthropology to our adminis- trators in West and East Africa and other Dependencies. Lord Moulton points the general moral in an introduction—namely, that the facts and methods of science should receive more attention in our schools and universities.
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