On Wednesday evening the British Association opened its annual meeting
at York, when the President, Dr. E. Ray Lankester, delivered his address. He chose for his subject the progress which had been made during the past quarter of a century in various branches of science. He dealt mainly with chemistry, and especially with the subject of radio-activity ; but his address included also a maiterly review of the work done in astronomy, geology, physiology, and psychology. Under the title of "Darwinism," he reviewed the .progress of biological science in developing the great theory of evolution, which, in his opinion, was more firmly established than ever. In conclusion, he dealt with the attitude of the Government to science, preaching a sermon from Mr. Haldane's favourite text, and, as was appropriate in a Cathedral city, lie defended the harmony between the scientific and religious spirits. "Religion," said Bishop Creighton, "means the knowledge of our destiny and the means of fulfilling it," and no better definition of science also could be desired.
Previous page
