Summary Of A Plea For Pure Science

In the mid-19th century, a young child by the named of Henry Augustus Rowland was developing his own desires for fundamental research. These ambitions were fueled by the complications he faced as a result of his religious family. Employing his adversity, Rowland later advanced to become a renowned scientist to revolutionize not only the design of spectroscopy but also the perception of scientific research in the late 19th century. He redirected his suppressions of the world to further develop this study of “pure science,” the understanding that science should focus on research for the advancement of knowledge. This concept of science had been forgotten and masked by the working world of the 19th century. Rowland found purpose to proclaim that …show more content…
While in the vice-president position of this association, Rowland developed a speech intended for the scientists willing to promote a more effective way of researching. This group consisted of scientists dedicated to improving the way scientific research was conducted in America. Rowland’s purpose for delivering this speech was to provide the indistinguishable evidence of wrongly-researched science that was concealed during the 19th century as a result of the working world. Ultimately, he wanted to encourage positive development towards the motives and ambitions of American science. In his speech A Plea for Pure Science, Rowland addresses the scarcity of “pure science” in the American community. Through this address, he interprets the study of science as two concepts: applied science and “pure science.” Applied science was understood by Rowland as a manipulate amenity that was hindering the progress of American science, while “pure science” contradicted these impediments. Through “pure science,” advancements in the study of nature were conducted; whether on a physical or molecular level, this aspect of science was intended to expand the knowledge of science. Rowland encouraged the study of “pure science” considering the immense possibilities that were yet to be discovered during that period. Obstructing these advancements were professors’ wrongly-influenced perceptions of the study of science. Most American scientists that Rowland observed were utilizing science for commercial applications, not only stalling the progression of science but also influencing students to do the same. He continues by explaining that the reduction of pure science within the science community is a direct result of the lack of effort within the professors and universities involved with educating the student. Rowland encourages professors and other scientists