A lecture on the diffusion of scientific knowledge, in large towns : delivered to the members of the Birmingham Philosophical Institution, Dec. 18, 1837 / by Peyton Blakiston.

Date:
[1837?]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A lecture on the diffusion of scientific knowledge, in large towns : delivered to the members of the Birmingham Philosophical Institution, Dec. 18, 1837 / by Peyton Blakiston. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. The original may be consulted at the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.

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    Us may be deduced from the advantages which we have seen to arise from its proper performance. If from the diffusion of scientific knowledge flows an increase in those things which contribute to the comfort and happiness of all—if the social feelings be improved, and civilisation be raised to a higher point than that at which it had previously stood—then it is our duty to extend these advantages by every means within our power. Society includes ourselves. The evils which result from ignorance are not confined to those persons with whom they originate, but radiate on all sides. Like some pestilential diseases which are engen- dered, or, at least, are rendered malignant by a want of cleanliness, they may eventually scourge all classes of society. The Bohemian peasants rose up and murdered some of their nobles at the time the cholera appeared amongst them, under the belief that they had poisoned the springs of water. What a contrast to the conduct of the inhabitants of this town and of Edinburgh ! who all united to employ the most rational means of prevention; and so successful were their efforts, that in this place the disease never obtained a footing; and in Edinburgh, although it broke out several times, it never spread to any great extent. It is a duty, then, we owe to ourselves to check the evils*arising from ignorance, and to promote the blessings which flow from its removal, by diffusing widely the light of Science. III. It now only remains for me to touch upon the means of diffusing scientific knowledge, which may be divided into early education, and the instruction of adults. Education cannot be commenced too early, if it be conducted upon proper principles. To control the passions, and cultivate the best feelings of the heart,—gently to exercise the memory, and at the same time to refrain from forcing the reasoning faculties of the infant,—should be the care of those who undertake their instruction. A warm heart and a sound head are alike required, with perfect command of temper, and unflinching firmness of purpose. Parents who can engage the affections, and whilst they excite a curiosity after knowledge, can gratify it in a pleasing manner, are the most natural instructors of childhood. When, however, they are either incompetent to the task, or are engaged in manual labour, infant schools are of great value, providing the greatest care and con- sideration be bestowed upon the choice of those who are to conduct