The Defects of the Learned Society

Existing scientific societies do not provide an adequate basis for organization, even less for initiative in the direction of research. They have become almost purely publishing houses and honorific corporations. The system undoubtedly has its advantages but is liable to very grave abuses. It provides no check against the play of personal interests. In science there is less incentive to jobery than in business or politics, but there is always some. Although scientific posts do not carry substantial salaries, the scientist attaches almost childish value to the title and prestige of the position.