Science in the 19th Century Periodical

The Review of Reviews [1st]

Introductory Essay
Volume 1  (January to June 1890)
Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 3–13.

Some Autograph Introductions

Anon / T H Huxley Huxley, Thomas Henry (1825–95) DSB
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Genre:

Letter



Professor Huxley

Subjects:

Publishing, Science Communication


    In one of a series of reprinted letters from eminent supporters of the Review of Reviews Review of Reviews (1890–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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, Huxley counsels that the editor must 'secure the services of a body of intelligent and painstaking précis writers'. He warns, 'I am not quite sure that extracts are fair to authors' because 'passages without context often give a very wrong impression of the writer's meaning' (9).




Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 15–20.

To All English-Speaking Folk

Anon

Genre:

Editorial

Subjects:

Imperialism, Darwinism, National Efficiency, Religion, Biblical Authority


    Proclaims that in maintaining an English-speaking empire, 'Our supreme duty is the winnowing out by a process of natural selection [...] all those who possess within their hearts the sacred fire of patriotic devotion to their country' (17). This Carlylean cadre of leaders and the populations they rule will be 'bound together by a common faith' disseminated throughout the English-speaking world by the new Review of Reviews Review of Reviews (1890–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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, which will be 'read as men used to read their Bibles [...] to discover the will of God and their duty to man' (20).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 20–27.

Character Sketch: January. I.—Mr. H. M. Stanley

Anon

Genre:

Biography, Regular Feature

Subjects:

Heroism, Materialism, Idealism, Exploration, Imperialism, Religion, Controversy, Ethnography, Race, Popularization


    In an age in which 'materialism and steam are supposed to have exorcised the Ideal', Henry M Stanley's Stanley, Sir Henry Morton (1841–1904) ODNB
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explorations in central Africa embody a romantic heroism 'not unworthy to be ranked with any of [...] the knights of Arthur's Table Round' (20). The strength of Stanley's religion and his 'devotion to his spiritual father' David Livingstone Livingstone, David (1813–73) ODNB
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were evident in his controversy with Clements R Markham Markham, Sir Clements Robert (1830–1916) DSB
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at the meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science British Association for the Advancement of Science
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at Brighton in 1872 (23). Stanley, a former journalist, avers that it is 'the enterprise of the press which has popularised African discovery' and 'set on foot that scramble for Africa which is the most conspicuous feature of our day' (27). As an Anglo-American, he also embodies the 'unity of the English-speaking race' that is 'the key-note policy of the REVIEW OF REVIEWS Review of Reviews (1890–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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' (24).



Section: Leading Articles in the Reviews

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 30–31.

Personal Reminiscences of Carlyle. By Professor Tyndall

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

John Tyndall Tyndall, John (1820–93) DSB
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, Fortnightly Review Fortnightly Review (1865–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Unbelief, Imagination

People mentioned:

Thomas Carlyle Carlyle, Thomas (1795–1881) ODNB
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 33–34.

The Miracles of Electricity

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Park Benjamin Benjamin, Park (1849–1922) WBI
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Miracle, Technology, Light, Heat, Photography, Electromagnetism, Railways, Telegraphy


    Benjamin's 'provoking' paper, a product of the 'scientific imagination', discusses future uses of electricity. These include distant photographs that appear on a 'sensitive plate in San Francisco', but 'photographically record the event taking place in New York', railway cars that employ 'a series of electro-magnetic coils' and can reach three hundred miles an hour (33), and 'a wall-paper [...] capable of being rendered luminous by electricity, and even sufficiently warm to heat a room!' (34). Notes that miraculous electrical feats such as the 'telegraphic transmission of fac-simile writing' have 'already been achieved' (33).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 34.

Electricity in the Household

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Arthur E Kennelly Kennelly, Arthur Edwin (1861–1939) DSB
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, Scribner's Magazine Scribner's Magazine (1887–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Technology, Electromagnetism, Machinery


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 35–36.

The Natural Inequality of Man. By Professor Huxley

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Thomas H Huxley Huxley, Thomas Henry (1825–95) DSB
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Politics, Anthropology, Human Species

People mentioned:

Herbert Spencer, Spencer, Herbert (1820–1903) DSB
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Jean J Rousseau Rousseau, Jean Jacques (1712–78) CBD
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 38–40.

What Should I Do With My Millions? By Mr. Millionaire Carnegie

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Andrew Carnegie Carnegie, Andrew (1835–1918) CBD
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, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Patronage, Universities, Astronomy, Observatories, Progress, Instruments, Libraries, Hospitals, Laboratories, Medical Practitioners, Gender


    Among various philanthropic suggestions, millionaires 'interested in the ennobling study of astronomy' are advised that 'the progress made in astronomical instruments and appliances is so great and continuous, that every few years a new telescope might be judiciously given to one of the observatories upon this continent' (38–39). Also 'great sums can be worthily used' for the 'founding or extension of hospitals, medical colleges, laboratories, and other institutions connected with the alleviation of human suffering, and especially with the prevention rather than the cure of human ills'. Observes that their 'employment as nurses has enlarged the sphere and influence of women', and that this class of females might provide suitable wives for senators and physicians. (39)



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 47.

The Author of "Looking Backward". An Interview with Edward Bellamy

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Frances E C Willard Willard, Frances Elizabeth Caroline (1839–98) CBD
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, Our Day Our Day (1888–94) Our Day, the Altruistic Review (1895–1900+) RLIN
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Subjects:

Darwinism, Sex, Socialism, Gender


    Edward Bellamy Bellamy, Edward (1850–98) CBD
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describes his socialist plan for removing economic considerations from the mechanism of sexual selection: 'Under my system men will be chosen on their individual merit, and not because they can "support a wife"'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 48–49.

How the Exhibition Impressed Them. By M. Anatole Leroy-Beaulieu

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Anatole Leroy-Beaulieu Leroy-Beaulieu, Anatole (b. 1842) WBI
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, Nouvelle Revue Internationale Nouvelle Revue Internationale (1888–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Exhibitions, Ethnology, Machinery, Engineers, Engineering, Progress


    This 'brilliant literary paper' presents several imaginary letters and journals by fictional foreign visitors to the Exposition Universelle de Paris de 1889 Exposition Universelle (1889), Paris
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. These include a Shah for whom the 'groaning and hissing [...] machines' have been 'invented by evil spirits', and an American engineer who admires the Tour Eiffel Tour Eiffel, Paris
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, but 'hurries home to draw up plans for constructing a tower half as high again'. (48)



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 50–51.

Some Strange Ghost Stories

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Minot J Savage Savage, Minot Judson (1841–1918) WBI
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Spiritualism, Methodology, Telegraphy


    An account of spiritual phenomena that remain 'inexplicable' even when tested 'ruthlessly' in accordance with 'the "scientific method"' (50). In one occurrence, the news of an aunt's death is conveyed via the spirit world before it is related by telegraphy, and a clear parallel is drawn between the two modes of communication.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 51.

What I Believe and What I Don't. By Colonel Robert Ingersoll

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Robert G Ingersoll Ingersoll, Robert Green (1833–99) CBD
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, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Agnosticism, Unbelief, Scientific Naturalism

People mentioned:

Ernst H P A Haeckel, Haeckel, Ernst Heinrich Philipp August (1834–1919) DSB
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Thomas H Huxley, Huxley, Thomas Henry (1825–95) DSB
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John Tyndall Tyndall, John (1820–93) DSB
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Section: The Reviews Reviewed

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 54–55.

The Contemporary Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Edward A Freeman Freeman, Edward Augustus (1823–92) ODNB
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, Contemporary Review Contemporary Review (1866–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Human Species, Race, Descent


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 57–59.

The Nineteenth Century

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Charles W Vincent Vincent, Charles W () WIVP
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Light, Fear


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 59–60.

The Forum (New York)

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Samuel W Gould Gould, Samuel W (b. 1839) WBI
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Medical Treatment, Bacteriology, Public Health


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 60–61.

The North American

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

George Westinghouse Westinghouse, George (1846–1914) WBI
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, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Light

People mentioned:

Thomas A Edison Edison, Thomas Alva (1847–1931) DSB
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 61.

Our Day

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Our Day Our Day (1888–94) Our Day, the Altruistic Review (1895–1900+) RLIN
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Subjects:

Temperance


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 61–63.

The Revue Des Deux Mondes

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Emile L Victor, baron de Laveleye Laveleye, Emile Louis Victor, baron de (1822–92) WBI
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, Antoine Saparta Saparta, Antoine () RR1/1/1b/18
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, Revue des Deux Mondes Revue des Deux Mondes (1831–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Socialism, Darwinism, Sociology | Adulteration


^^ Back to the top of this issue

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 87–95.

The Progress of the World

Anon

Genre:

Regular Feature, Editorial

Relevant illustrations:

map

Subjects:

Disease, Public Health, Bacteriology, Race, Putrefaction, Statistics, Progress, Fear, Transport, Electricity, Socialism, Telegraphy, Imperialism

People mentioned:

Maximilian H Jolles, Jolles, Maximilian H (1861–1914) WBI
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Robert Rawlinson Rawlinson, Sir Robert (1810–98) ODNB
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    Begins with an account of the 'Influenza Epidemic, which has been the great event of January'. The 'subtle microbe' originated in the putrefying flood waters of China, and its universal spread makes it clear that while the 'Chinese are, to most of us, hardly regarded as beings within the pale of humanity', they are in fact 'part of the common human family'. Statistics show that the mortality rate from the influenza epidemic is greater than that of all the recent colonial wars. (87) Notes that the 'shrinkage of the world under the potent influences of steam and electricity has undoubtedly facilitated the spread of epidemic disease' (88). Predicts the increasing electrification of state-owned public transportation systems, accompanied by a corresponding increase in administrative socialism (89–90). Warns that 'a strong annexationist movement in New Foundland' would threaten the British Empire because 'all the cables which link the Old World with the New' might be 'cut off' (95).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 100–07.

Character Sketch: February. II.—Mr. Charles S. Parnell

Anon

Genre:

Regular Feature, Biography

Subjects:

Heredity, Engineers


    In discussing Charles S Parnell's Parnell, Charles Stewart (1846–91) ODNB
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distinguished lineage, asserts that 'Mr. Galton Galton, Sir Francis (1822–1911) DSB ODNB
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may search far and wide without finding a more signal instance of heredity than the Irish chieftain' (100). Parnell brings to the stormy world of politics, a 'mind [...] essentially that of a civil engineer' and, as when 'an engineer is making a cutting', he 'is too intent upon his end to waste force in unnecessary emotion' (101).



Section: Leading Articles in the Reviews

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 111.

Do Dead Men Dream? A Contribution to the Science of Ghosts

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Frederic W H Myers Myers, Frederic William Henry (1843–1901) ODNB
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, Proceedings of the Society for Psychical Research Proceedings of the Society for Psychical Research (1882–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Psychical Research, Theory, Analogy, Energy, Natural Law, Light, Electricity, Psychology


    A 'collection of well-authenticated ghost-stories' expounding the 'theory that apparitions are in reality the dreams of the dead men, and can be explained scientifically by the analogy of telepathy'. For Myers, 'a ghost is [...] a manifestation of persistent personal energy, or [...] a residue of the force or energy which the man generated while he was still alive'. At the end of his earthly life 'a man does not die altogether'. Rather, a 'certain shadowy semblance of himself lingers behind' and 'becomes visible to the eyes of mortals, as the slender filament of the incandescent lamp becomes luminous when the electricity is turned on'. Concludes that 'if Mr. Myers is right, we shall have to reconstruct the whole of our theory of personality'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 115–16.

The Future and What it Hides in it. A Scientific Prophecy by Professor Thurston

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Robert H Thurston Thurston, Robert Henry (1839–1903) DSB
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Progress, Descent, Evolution, Engineering, Transport, Telegraphy, Electricity, Manufactories, Futurism, Humanism, Light, Aeronautics


    Among the scientific advances that the future holds are a highly evolved race of men 'having a god-like intelligence of countenance' (115), a distribution of electric power that will allow a return to home-working and the breakdown of 'the present factory system' with its 'great aggregations of capital in unscrupulous hands', submarine boats that will 'insure the peace of the world', and flying machines powered by electricity (116).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 117.

The Miracle of Mesmerism. By Dr. Charcot

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Jean M Charcot Charcot, Jean-Martin (1825–93) DSB
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Mesmerism, Photography, Supernaturalism

People mentioned:

James Braid Braid, James (1795–1860) ODNB
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    Charcot resists invoking a supernatural explanation for the enhanced capacities of hypnotic patients. His suggestion that 'it is possible for the mind to impress upon a blank sheet of paper a picture, visible only to the eye of the hypnotised person', if properly followed up, 'may lead us far' (117).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 120.

The Genius of This Electric Age. Mr. Edison and His Ideas

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

George P Lathrop Lathrop, George Parsons (1851–98) WBI
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, Harper's New Monthly Magazine Harper's New Monthly Magazine (1850–99) Harper's Monthly Magazine (1899–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Genius, Invention, Creativity, Telegraphy, Patents, Deduction, Light, Theory, Imagination, Creation, Chemistry

People mentioned:

Thomas A Edison Edison, Thomas Alva (1847–1931) DSB
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    Lathrop's interviews with Edison reveal details of his upbringing, working practices, and beliefs. His method of invention is to work at a theory 'till it is proved to be incorrect', and he is 'much given to dreaming' and constantly employs 'his scientific imagination'. In answer to a question on the reality of an intelligent creator, Edison replies, 'The existence of such a God can, to my mind, almost be proved from chemistry'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 121.

Wanted, a New Reformation

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

John W Cross Cross, John Walter (1840–1924) WBI
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Christianity, Miracle, Scientific Naturalism


    Suggests that Dante Alighieri Dante Alighieri (1265–1321) CBD
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, 'the first Christian prophet who has given us a revelation without the pretension of any miraculous intervention', may prove 'the missing link between belief resting on theological dogmas and a coherent social faith, of which science will be the handmaiden'. In this new reformed faith, 'Men of science' will be 'regarded as the best soldiers in the ranks of the truly religious'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 127.

A Dead Man's Diary. What I Felt at the Moment of Death

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Lippincott's Monthly Magazine Lippincott's Monthly Magazine of Literature, Science and Education (1868–70) Lippincott's Magazine of Popular Literature and Science (1871–85) Lippincott's Monthly Magazine (1886–1900+) WaterlooDirectory
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Subjects:

Soul, Eschatology, Medical Treatment


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 128.

Is "Progress and Poverty" All Fudge? Yes! By Professor Huxley

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Thomas H Huxley Huxley, Thomas Henry (1825–95) DSB
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Controversy, Morality, Government


    Huxley's argument that the 'natural rights theory' of Jean J Rousseau Rousseau, Jean Jacques (1712–78) CBD
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and Henry George George, Henry (1839–97) CBD
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is 'merely reasoned savagery' and must be restrained by moral and social law is a 'specimen of lively and sprightly and sledge-hammer polemic'. This 'knock-down method of controversy suggests the thought that [Huxley's] natural vocation was the prize-ring'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 129.

Is Chloroform Safe? The Report of the Hyderabad Second Commission

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Lancet Lancet (1823–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Anaesthesia, Medical Treatment, Experiment, Vivisection


    The Hyderabad Chloroform Commission's Hyderabad Chloroform Commission
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conclusion that 'chloroform may be given in any case requiring an operation with perfect ease and absolute safety' is 'so unexpected and so sweeping in condemnation of the hitherto accepted view' that an abstract of the report 'may be of interest outside of medical circles'.



Section: The Reviews Reviewed

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 133–34.

The Edinburgh Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Edinburgh Review Edinburgh Review (1802–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Military Technology | Exploration, Steamships, Discovery, Heroism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 134.

The Dublin Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

St George J Mivart Mivart, St George Jackson (1827–1900) DSB
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, Dublin Review Dublin Review (1836–60) Wiseman Review (1861–85) Dublin Review (1885–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Darwinism, Christianity

Publications cited:

Wallace 1889 Wallace, Alfred Russel 1889. Darwinism: An Exposition of the Theory of Natural Selection, with Some of the Applications, London: Macmillan & Co
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 134.

The Primitive Methodist Quarterly Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Primitive Methodist Quarterly Review Primitive Methodist Quarterly Review (1879–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Darwinism, Religion, Natural Theology

People mentioned:

Charles R Darwin Darwin, Charles Robert (1809–82) DSB
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 137.

The Nineteenth Century

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

William H Hudson Hudson, William Henry (1841–1922) ODNB
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Natural History, Hunting, Extinction


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 138.

The Forum

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

John W Powell Powell, John Wesley (1834–1902) DSB
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Archaeology, Human Species


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 138.

The North American Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Camille Flammarion Flammarion, Camille (1842–1925) DSB
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, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Astronomy


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 139.

Scribner's

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

G Frederick Wright Wright, George Frederick (1838–1921) DSB
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, Scribner's Magazine Scribner's Magazine (1887–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Ethnography | Engineers, Military Technology | Geology

People mentioned:

John Ericsson Ericsson, John (1803–89) CBD
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 142.

The German Reviews

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Camille Flammarion Flammarion, Camille (1842–1925) DSB
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, Deutsche Rundschau Deutsche Rundschau (1874–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Psychical Research

Institutions mentioned:

Society for Psychical Research Society for Psychical Research
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^^ Back to the top of this issue

Section: Leading Articles in the Reviews

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 195.

Mr. John Ruskin at Brantwood. An Essay by Mrs. Ritchie

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Anne I Ritchie Ritchie (née Thackeray), Anne Isabella, Lady (1837–1919) ODNB
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, Harper's New Monthly Magazine Harper's New Monthly Magazine (1850–99) Harper's Monthly Magazine (1899–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Observation


    Recounts John Lubbock's Lubbock, Sir John, 4th Baronet and 1st Baron Avebury (1834–1913) DSB ODNB
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assertion that John Ruskin Ruskin, John (1819–1900) ODNB
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had 'undoubtedly done very much more [...] for science' than Johann W von Goethe Goethe, Johann Wolfgang von (1749–1832) DSB
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. Even 'without any pretensions to profound scientific knowledge', Ruskin had 'an extraordinary natural gift for observation, and seemed to know by instinct what to observe'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 198.

Mr. Grant Allen

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Grant Allen Allen, Grant (Charles Grant Blairfindie) (1848–99) ODNB
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, New Review New Review (1889–97) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Periodicals, Hypothesis, Evolution, Botany, Zoology


    Notes that Allen, 'the most indefatigable of all mags-men', has been spreading his journalistic talents too thinly. The only current article 'worthy of his reputation' propounds 'a hypothesis as to the way in which animals were evolved from plants'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 200.

Russia and England in Central Asia. A British Officer's Report

Anon

Genre:

Abstract, Extract

Publications abstracted:

Mark S Bell Bell, Mark Sever (1843–1906) WBI
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, Proceedings of the Royal Geographical Society Proceedings of the Royal Geographical Society (1855–92) Geographical Journal, including Proceedings of the Royal Geographical Society (1893–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Ethnography, Imperialism

Institutions mentioned:

Royal Geographical Society Royal Geographical Society
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 201.

The Secret of the Mystery of Mesmerism. By Mrs. Annie Besant

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Annie Besant Besant (née Wood), Annie (1847–1933) ODNB
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, Universal Review Universal Review (1888–94) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Mesmerism, Animal Magnetism, Light, Force, Soul


    When hypnotised a subject's bodily powers are pacified allowing the more powerful Inner Self to reveal itself as a light 'called Odic force'. Because perception is always based upon sensation, the force vibrations produced by the Inner Self may become visible to people with 'abnormally sharpened senses'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 201.

A Defence of Universal Suffrage. By Senor Castelar

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Emilio Castelar Castelar, Emilio (Emilio Castelar y Ripoll) (1832–99) WBI
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, Nouvelle Revue Internationale Nouvelle Revue Internationale (1888–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Analogy, Natural History, Natural Law, Human Species


    In the natural world 'Equality is the general law, inequality the particular exception'. For example, 'When you know one insect you know all of its species'. This 'clever argumentative' article, although yielding the 'rational to the splendid', locates the question of equal suffrage within the 'one eternal harmony' of the universe.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 203–04.

The Forth Bridge

Anon

Genre:

Abstract, Extract

Publications abstracted:

James T Knowles Knowles, Sir James Thomas (1831–1908) ODNB
Close   View the register entry >>
, English Illustrated Magazine English Illustrated Magazine (1883–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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, Chamber's Journal of Popular Literature, Science and Arts Chamber's Edinburgh Journal (1832–53) Chambers's Journal of Popular Literature, Science and Arts (1854–97) Chamber's Journal (1898–1900+) Waterloo Directory
Close   View the register entry >>
, Hardwicke D Rawnsley Rawnsley, Hardwicke Drummond (1851–1920) ODNB
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, Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine Edinburgh Monthly Magazine (1817) Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine (1817–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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, Industries Industries (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Relevant illustrations:

wdct.

Subjects:

Engineering, Engineers


    Digest of various articles, as well as a sonnet, celebrating the 'greatest engineering achievement of our time' (203)



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 206–07.

Municipal Socialism in Practice. The Example of Glasgow. By an American Observer

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Albert Shaw Shaw, Albert (1857–1947) WBI
Close   View the register entry >>
, Century Magazine Century (1871–77) Scribner's Monthly (1877–81) Century Magazine (1881–1900+) Waterloo Directory
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Socialism, Industry, Transport, Light


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 207.

A Spiritualist's Library. Hints as to the Selection of Books

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Light Light (1881–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Spiritualism, Monographs, Reading, Periodicals


    Annotated list of books appropriate for a spiritualist's library. Notes that 'of some half dozen journals appearing regularly in all parts of the world to chronicle the phenomena and defend the doctrines of spiritualism [...] Light is the best'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 209.

Giordano Bruno and His Doctrines. His Trial Before the Inquisition

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

William R Thayer Thayer, William Roscoe (1859–1923) WBI
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, Atlantic Monthly Magazine Atlantic Monthly Magazine (1857–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Christianity, Rationalism, Heterodoxy


    Many conflicting verdicts have been passed on Giordano Bruno Bruno, Giordano (1548–1600) DSB
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, but for the nineteenth century 'when the growing bulk of rationalism casts a pessimistic shadow over so many hopes, it is encouraging to know that the rationalist Bruno saw no reason for despair'. Nevertheless, he is still regarded by the Vatican as 'devil-possessed' and if Popes were as influential as they were in Bruno's day 'they would have found reason enough to burn Mill Mill, John Stuart (1806–73) DSB
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and Darwin Darwin, Charles Robert (1809–82) DSB
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'.



Section: The Reviews Reviewed

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 215–16.

The National Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

William L Courtney Courtney, William Leonard (1850–1928) ODNB
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, Albert J Mott Mott, Albert Julius (fl. 1870) WBI
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, National Review National Review (1883–1900+) Sullivan 1984
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Subjects:

Psychology, Phrenology, Physiology, Gender | Darwinism, Materialism, Soul, Instinct, Religion, Neurology

Publications cited:

Wallace 1889 Wallace, Alfred Russel 1889. Darwinism: An Exposition of the Theory of Natural Selection, with Some of the Applications, London: Macmillan & Co
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 216–17.

The New Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Frederick Greenwood Greenwood, Frederick (1830–1909) ODNB
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, New Review New Review (1889–97) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Evolution, Human Species, Morality, Humanism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 217–18.

The Nineteenth Century

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

George Fleming Fleming, George (1833–1901) ODNB
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, Prince Peter Kropotkin Kropotkin, Prince Peter (1842–1921) CBD
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, Harvey Goodwin Goodwin, Harvey (1818–91) ODNB
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Disease | Education | Darwinism, Design


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 218.

The Forum

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

John W Powell Powell, John Wesley (1834–1902) DSB
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Archaeology, Human Species


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 219.

The North American Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

William Thomson Thomson, Sir William (Baron Kelvin of Largs) (1824–1907) DSB
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, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Light, Fear

See also:

Anon, 'The Regulation of Electric Lighting', Review of Reviews, 1 (1890), 304


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 219–20.

The Century

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Horatio C Wood Wood, Horatio Charles (1841–1920) DSB
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, Century Magazine Century (1871–77) Scribner's Monthly (1877–81) Century Magazine (1881–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Psychology, Sound, Analogy


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 220.

Harper's

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Prof. Hensoldt Hensoldt, Henry (fl. 1889–90) RLIN
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, Harper's New Monthly Magazine Harper's New Monthly Magazine (1850–99) Harper's Monthly Magazine (1899–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Natural History, Heredity


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 220.

Scribner's

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

William James James, William (1842–1910) DSB
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, Scribner's Magazine Scribner's Magazine (1887–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Psychology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 221.

Cornhill Magazine

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Cornhill Magazine Cornhill Magazine (1860–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Geology, Physical Geography


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 230–41.

Looking Forward. A Romance of the Electric Age

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

[Macnie] 1890 Macnie, John [Ismar Thiusen, pseud.] 1890. Looking Forward; or, The Diothas, London and New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons
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Subjects:

Futurism, Electricity, Humanism, Imagination, Metallurgy, Manufactories, Transport, Technology, Progress, Socialism, Agriculture, Education, Photography, Gender

People mentioned:

Edward Bellamy Bellamy, Edward (1850–98) CBD
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    Summary of John Macnie's Macnie, John ()1935–1909 RLIN
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utopian vision of the future, in which electricity has transformed almost every aspect of human life. This novel, as well as other utopian fictions, reveal how 'We are standing at the day-dawn of the Electric Age. The thunderbolt of Jove has become the most puissant of all the servants of man. It has annihilated time, abolished space, and it will yet unify the world' (230). In the ninety sixth century, photography and the phonograph are 'women's inventions' that are 'characteristically feminine in their purpose and application' allowing a woman to 'behold those distant scenes to which she had less free access than man—before marriage, at least' (238).



^^ Back to the top of this issue

Section: Leading Articles in the Reviews

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 287–88.

How Cycling Injures Health. By Dr. B. W. Richardson

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Benjamin W Richardson Richardson, Benjamin Ward (1828–96) DSB
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, Asclepiad Asclepiad (1884–95) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Public Health, Physiology, Anatomy, Pathology, Degeneration


    Warns that excessive cycling will 'manufacture a set of pathological living specimens', and advises changes to the design of bicycles (288).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 290.

Is There Coal in Kent? By Professor Boyd Dawkins

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

William B Dawkins Dawkins, Sir William Boyd (1837–1929) ODNB
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, Contemporary Review Contemporary Review (1866–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Relevant illustrations:

wdct. [2]

Subjects:

Mining, Discovery, Economic Geology, Experiment

People mentioned:

Henry H Godwin-Austen, Godwin-Austen, Henry Haversham (1834–1923) ODNB
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Edward W Watkin Watkin, Sir Edward William (1819–1901) ODNB
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Institutions mentioned:

Geological Society, Geological Society of London
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Royal Commission on Coal Supplies Royal Commission on Coal Supplies
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 295.

A German View of Portuguese Africa. With Map. By Oscar Lenz

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Oskar Lenz Lenz, Oskar (1848–1925) WBI
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, Velhegen und Klasing's Neue Monatshefte Velhegen und Klasing's Neue Monatshefte (1889–1900+) BUCOP
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Relevant illustrations:

map

Subjects:

Imperialism, Mapping, Physical Geography


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 296.

Mr. Barnum's Latest Idea

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Phineas T Barnum Barnum, Phineas Taylor (1810–91) CBD
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, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Archaeology, Exhibitions, Anti-Scientism


    Barnum suggests that displaying the 'mummified corpse of Rameses II.' at the great exhibition of 1892 might induce 'this generation, proud of its scientific and mechanical triumph, to bear in mind that the art that embalmed the body of Rameses so perfectly is lost, with a great many others that were known to antiquity'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 301.

A New System of Signalling

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

William H Gilder Gilder, William Henry (1838–1900) WBI
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, Cosmopolitan Magazine Cosmopolitan Magazine (1886–1900+) BUCOP
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Electricity, Light, Military Technology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 303.

Three Views About Zolaism. By Dr. O. W. Holmes, Mr. W. H. Mallock, and Mr. Hall Caine

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Oliver W Holmes Holmes, Oliver Wendell (1809–94) CBD
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, Atlantic Monthly Magazine Atlantic Monthly Magazine (1857–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Morality, Imagination, Disciplinarity, Boundary Formation

People mentioned:

Émile Zola Zola, Èmile (1840–1902) CBD
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    Holmes insists that 'when the poet or the story-teller invades the province of the man of science, he is on dangerous grounds [...]. The imaginative writer is after effects. The scientific man is after truth. Science is decent, modest; does not try to startle, but to instruct. The same scenes and objects which outrage every sense of delicacy in the story-teller's highly-coloured paragraphs can be read without giving offence in the chaste language of the physiologist or physician [....] Leave the description of the drains and cesspools to the hygienic specialist, the painful facts of disease to the physician'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 304.

The Autobiography of a Mystic. A Seer Who has Seen Joan of Arc

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

George Chainey Chainey, George (b. 1851) WBI
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, Psyche Psyche (1890) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Christianity, Freethought, Spiritualism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 304.

The Regulation of Electric Lighting

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

George Westinghouse Westinghouse, George (1846–1914) WBI
Close   View the register entry >>
, North American Review North American Review (1815–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Light, Government

People mentioned:

William Thomson Thomson, Sir William (Baron Kelvin of Largs) (1824–1907) DSB
Close   View the register entry >>

See also:

Anon, 'The North American Review', Review of Reviews, 1 (1890), 219


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 305.

Why Progress Must be Slow? Scientific Consolation for Impatient Reformers

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Cesare Lombroso Lombroso, Cesare (1836–1909) CBD
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, Nouvelle Revue Internationale Nouvelle Revue Internationale (1888–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Progress, Natural Law, Physiology


    Lombroso argues that 'man and human society are instinctively conservative' and all 'efforts in favour of progress which express themselves by too brusque and violent means are not in accordance with physiological law'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 305.

Why Should We Not Eat Horse Meat? By Mr. Lees Knowles, M.P.

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Lees Knowles Knowles, Lees (1857–1928) WBI
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Nutrition


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 309.

How Smoking Injures the Voice. By Sir Morell Mackenzie

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Morell Mackenzie Mackenzie, Sir Morell (1837–92) ODNB
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, New Review New Review (1889–97) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Health, Physiology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 312.

The Electric Railway of To-day

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Joseph Wetzler Wetzler, Joseph (1863–1911) WBI
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, Scribner's Magazine Scribner's Magazine (1887–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Electricity, Railways

Institutions mentioned:

American Institute of Electrical Engineers American Institute of Electrical Engineers
Close   View the register entry >>


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 313.

The Reform of the College of Surgeons. By Sir Morell Mackenzie

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Morell Mackenzie Mackenzie, Sir Morell (1837–92) ODNB
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, Fortnightly Review Fortnightly Review (1865–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Institutions, Medical Practitioners, Education, Professionalization, Progress


    Proposal for sweeping reforms of the oligarchic Royal College of Surgeons Royal College of Surgeons
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which reflects the 'great wave of professional opinion which is slowly but surely rising and gathering force to sweep away the rottenness of the constitution, the inertness, inefficiency, evil traditions, and scandalous abuses of all kinds, owing to which our medical corporations, instead of aiding, have seriously obstructed the course of scientific progress'.



Section: The Reviews Reviewed

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 315–16.

Contemporary Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Hardwicke D Rawnsley Rawnsley, Hardwicke Drummond (1851–1920) ODNB
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, Contemporary Review Contemporary Review (1866–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Industry, Environmentalism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 316–17.

The Fortnightly Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Algernon C Swinburne Swinburne, Algernon Charles (1837–1909) ODNB
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, Fortnightly Review Fortnightly Review (1865–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Engineering, Anti-Scientism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 318.

The National Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

National Review National Review (1883–1900+) Sullivan 1984
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Subjects:

Mining, Public Health, Gas Chemistry


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 320.

Forum

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Henry L Abbot Abbot, Henry Larcom (1831–1927) WBI
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Military Technology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 329.

Some Foreign Military Periodicals

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Subjects:

Military Technology


^^ Back to the top of this issue

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 385–92.

Character Sketch: May. V.—Dr. Eduard Schnitzer Alias Emin Pasha

Anon

Genre:

Regular Feature, Biography

Subjects:

Imperialism, Natural History, Anti-Scientism, Exploration, Race

People mentioned:

Charles G Gordon, Gordon, Charles George ('Chinese Gordon') (1833–85) ODNB
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Henry M Stanley Stanley, Sir Henry Morton (1841–1904) ODNB
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    As governor of the African Equatorial Province, Emin Pasha Emin Pasha (originally Eduard Schnitzer) (1840–92) CBD
Close   View the register entry >>
was an 'illustration of the scientist proconsul' who 'can never feel that politics are other than a disagreeable interruption of the much more important pursuits of beetle-catching and bird-collecting' (387). However, his writings on African natural history are as humourless and uninspiring as 'a catalogue of the natural history department at South Kensington', and he describes humans 'more as specimens than fellow creatures'. Nevertheless, he is 'more than a man who, as Wordsworth Wordsworth, William (1770–1850) ODNB
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bitterly said, "Would peep and botanize upon his mother's grave". He would do that, no doubt, and think that it was the best way of doing honour to his mother; but he would do more than that'. For instance, although he is a scientist 'he has within him a heart that occasionally finds expression even in protest against the scientific spirit'. (388)



Section: Leading Articles in the Reviews

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 393.

Count Mattei, the Cancer Curer. Lady Paget's Testimony

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Walburga E H Paget Paget, Countess Walburga Ehrengarde Helena de (d. 1929) ODNB, s.v. Paget, Sir Augustus Berkeley
Close   View the register entry >>
, National Review National Review (1883–1900+) Sullivan 1984
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Subjects:

Disease, Medical Treatment, Homeopathy, Heterodoxy, Electricity, Medical Practitioners


    Sympathetic account of Cesare Mattei's Mattei, Cesare (1809–96) WBI
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system of medicine, based on 'globules and liquid electricity', which, the 'Italian nobleman' claims, can 'cure all the physical ills which flesh is heir to'. In order 'to anticipate numberless inquiries from those who will want to know all about the system', the author gives the London address of 'a qualified doctor who regularly prescribes the Count's medicines'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 396.

How to Reconcile Science with Genesis. By Mr. Gladstone

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

William E Gladstone Gladstone, William Ewart (1809–98) ODNB
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, Good Words Good Words (1860–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Biblical Authority, Creationism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 398.

How Sounds are Made Visible. The Story of Pictures Made by Music

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

John F Rowbotham Rowbotham, John Frederick (1854–1925) WBI
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, Cassell's Family Magazine Cassell's Illustrated Family Paper (1853–67) Cassell's Magazine (1867–74) Cassell's Family Magazine (1874–97) Cassell's Magazine of Fiction (1897–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Wonder, Sound, Music, Experiment, Photography


    Begins by asserting that 'When our fathers were told that the sun could be made to turn artist they told the early photographist to carry such stories to the marines. Now when we are told that pictures can be made by notes of music we are equally incredulous'. Nevertheless, 'it is true' and in several 'delicate investigations into the nature of sound' the voice of a singer has produced 'most unexpected forms', such as 'Daisies, with every petal perfectly shaped', on an elastic 'membrane [...] covered with a semi-fluid paste' attached to a 'hollow receiver'. These are then 'photographed whilst the membrane is in sonorous vibration'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 400.

Is Civilization a Failure? "As the Case Stands Now, Yes"—Prof. Huxley

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Thomas H Huxley Huxley, Thomas Henry (1825–95) DSB
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, Nineteenth Century Nineteenth Century (1877–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Government, Socialism, Darwinism


    Notes that Huxley's 'notable expression of disbelief in the excellence of the natural laws of the struggle for existence, and the survival of the fittest, will probably do the anti-socialists more harm than all the damage done to the socialists by his swashing blow against regimentation'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 400.

The Humanity of the Small-Bore Rifle. By a German Professor

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Paul von Bruns Bruns, Paul von (1846–1916) WBI
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Subjects:

Military Technology, Humanism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 404.

How to Utilise the Magic Lantern. Some Valuable Hints to Teachers

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Photographic Quarterly Photographic Quarterly (1889–92) Waterloo Directory
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Photography, Education, Biology, Microscopy


    As the example of the Yorkshire College Yorkshire College, Leeds
Close   View the register entry >>
in Leeds shows, lantern slides are of enormous benefit to lectures in subjects such as 'Engineering, Dyeing, and the Textile Industries'. In particular, they can be used in lectures on biology that are 'illustrated by micro-photographs'. In fact, 'So convenient and successful has the plan proved that the microscope is rarely used for lecture illustrations, but is relegated to its proper place in the laboratory'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 408.

How to Get Rid of Rats. A Receipt That Killed 3,000 in a Night

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Cornhill Magazine Cornhill Magazine (1860–1900+) Waterloo Directory
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Telegraphy


    Article on exterminating rats concludes with a humorous anecdote concerning a rat that was used to connect a lateral wire to the leading-line during repairs to the London telegraph system. At the end this 'latest addition to the staff of the Post Office [....] was set free in recognition of the service it had rendered'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 409.

Is the Sun Cold? Yes, and Inhabited. By S. M. Allan

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Steven M Allan Allan, Steven M (fl. 1890) RR1/1/5a/9
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, Arena Arena (1889–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Astronomy, Physics, Ether, Extra-Terrestrial Life, Creation, Heterodoxy


    Notes somewhat sceptically that Allan 'signs himself A.M., LL.B., F.R.H.S.'. The 'old theory of a fiery sun' is contradicted by Allan's 'newly discovered law of "actien"', according to which the sun throws off a cold 'imponderable fluid' which produces heat only by 'its conflict with ether'. This cool sun, moreover, is 'an inhabited globe with an atmosphere'. Allan also holds that 'the conflict between actien and ether results in the generation of atomic and molecular substance, which fly off into space, where they float until, driven by attraction, they resolve into a body which revolves upon its axis. The body then begins to grow'. In this manner the 'earth was formed and concentrated under great pressure, an atmosphere was created for it by the aqueous vapours as a necessary result'. According to Allan, the article concludes, 'we have the key to creation in our hands'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 413.

How Women are Worked to Death. The Long Hours of Nurses and Barmaids

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Woman's World Lady's World (1886–87) Woman's World (1887–90) Waterloo Directory
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Medical Practitioners, Gender


Section: The Reviews Reviewed

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 418–19.

The Scottish Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Francis R Conder Conder, Francis Roubillac (fl. 1850–79) WBI
Close   View the register entry >>
, Scottish Review Scottish Review (1882–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Physical Geography, Agriculture, Engineering, Imperialism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 419–20.

The Quarterly Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Quarterly Review Quarterly Review (1809–1900+) Waterloo Directory
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Heredity, Genetics

People mentioned:

August F L Weismann Weismann, August Friedrich Leopold (1834–1914) DSB
Close   View the register entry >>


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 420–21.

The National Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Thomas A Trollope Trollope, Thomas Adolphus (1810–92) ODNB
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, Florence F Miller Miller, Florence Fenwick (1854–1935) ODNB
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, National Review National Review (1883–1900+) Sullivan 1984
Close   View the register entry >>

Subjects:

Spiritualism | Entomology, Socialism


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 427–28.

Some Foreign Military Periodicals

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Relevant illustrations:

wdct.

Subjects:

Military Technology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 434–44.

A Sign of the Times. "Lux Mundi" as the Book for May

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Gore ed. 1889 Gore, Charles ed. 1889. Lux Mundi: A Series of Studies in the Religion of the Incarnation, London: John Murray
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Subjects:

Controversy, Christianity, Evolution, Animal Development, Nomenclature, Design, Species


    Précis of a theological tome which has 'stirred the waters of religious controversy' (435) by 're-interpreting Christianity in the light of evolution' (436). Although evolution is 'the keynote of the book [...] the idea is generally draped by the less pronounced and, to many ears, less objectionable word development' (437). John R Illingworth's Illingworth, John Richardson (1848–1915) WBI
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contribution to the book seeks to show that instead of being in conflict, 'theology and science move in two different but parallel planes'. The 'idea of design in nature', moreover, has not 'been exploded by the doctrine of evolution [...] it has only been more loftily and certainly re-affirmed'. For Illingworth 'modern evolution is not the re-assertion of the Heraclitean flux. Species once developed are, in proportion to their versatility, persistent'. (439)



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Section: Leading Articles in the Reviews

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 486.

The Miracles of Hypnotism. The New and Terrible Secret of Science

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Jules B Luys Luys, Jules Bernard (1828–97) WBI
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, Fortnightly Review Fortnightly Review (1865–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Mesmerism, Fear, Psychology


    Hypnotism, which is in fact 'but mesmerism under a scientific alias', is of 'all the coming sciences the most marvellous and most uncanny'. This 'novel system of experimentalising upon the body and mind of man', however, is 'quite the most terrible revelation which has ever been afforded us of the power which one man may exert over his fellow creatures'. It 'suggests limitless possibilities as to the disintegration of personality', 'makes credible all the old stories of diabolical possession', and under its influence a man 'ceases to be a man, and becomes a machine'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 493.

Women as Archæologists. A German Tribute to English Women

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Franz X Kraus Kraus, Franz Xaver (1840–1901) WBI
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, Deutsche Rundschau Deutsche Rundschau (1874–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Archaeology, Gender

People mentioned:

Anna B Jameson, Jameson (née Murphy), Anna Brownell (1794–1860) ODNB
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Louisa Twining, Twining, Louisa (1820–1912) ODNB
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Margaret M Stokes Stokes, Margaret McNair (1832–1900) WBI
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    Comments that the success of female archaeologists 'protects the science from the charge of being an occupation unsuited for the sex to enter. What they have done should be an incentive for others to try their strength'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 496.

Is Human Nature Improving? Yes, and Thus Wise. By Miss Cobbe

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Frances P Cobbe Cobbe, Frances Power (1822–1904) ODNB
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Progress, Evolution, Human Species, Providence


    Cobbe advises that we should 'surely thank God and take courage, believing that in the order of His providence the "ape and tiger" are really, however slowly, dying out of human nature, while love and sympathy become stronger as the generations pass away'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 500.

Some Reminiscences of the Past. By Lady Duff Gordon's Daughter

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Janet A Ross Ross (née Duff Gordon), Janet Ann (1842–1927) ODNB
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, Murray's Magazine Murray's Magazine (1887–91) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Mathematics, Machinery


    Recalls that 'One day Mr. Babbage Babbage, Charles (1792–1871) DSB
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took her to see his calculating machine, and as she could never do sums, she immediately asked him to give it her. Mr. Babbage had a wonderful automaton—a lady made of silver, which he called his wife, who moved her arms in a graceful but weird fashion' (500).



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 500.

Count Mattei, the Cancer Curer

Anon

Genre:

Editorial

Subjects:

Disease, Medical Treatment, Heterodoxy, Medical Practitioners, Hospitals

People mentioned:

Cesare Mattei Mattei, Cesare (1809–96) WBI
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    Remarks on the deluge of 'letters from all parts of the world on account of the article' on the Mattei system in the previous number [Anon, 'Count Mattei, the Cancer Curer. Lady Paget's Testimony', Review of Reviews, 1 (1890), 393]. Also reports the 'unprecedented success which the Mattei system has achieved in the curing of leprosy' in India, and the decision to establish a cancer ward for poor patients who can be treated on the Mattei system, and so put in the way of curing themselves'.



Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 511.

A False Prophet of Coming Ill. Mr. Grant Allen's Vision of the Future

Anon

Genre:

Abstract

Publications abstracted:

Grant Allen Allen, Grant (Charles Grant Blairfindie) (1848–99) ODNB
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, Universal Review Universal Review (1888–94) Waterloo Directory
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Relevant illustrations:

photo.

Subjects:

Breeding, Human Species, Eugenics, Morality, Gender, Anti-Scientism


    Critical account of Allen's call for educated women to 'repudiate monogamy and deliberately seek to have as wide and varied a selection of fathers for their children as possible'. In this view, the 'ideal of motherhood' becomes 'indistinguishable from promiscuous but limited adultery' and threatens to undermine the code of morality which is 'common to humanity so far as mankind has emerged from the level of the savage'. Also describes Allen as 'a biologist who looks at the human race from the point of view of the stud-groom', and notes that 'the scientific instinct [...] looks upon human beings as the farmer regards his brood sows and prize boars'.



Section: The Reviews Reviewed

Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 515.

The Westminster Review

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Westminster Review Westminster Review (1846–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Unbelief, Morality, Natural Law


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 516.

The United Service Magazine

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

United Service Magazine United Service Magazine (1889–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Engineering, Controversy

People mentioned:

James T Knowles, Knowles, Sir James Thomas (1831–1908) ODNB
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Edward W Watkin Watkin, Sir Edward William (1819–1901) ODNB
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 517.

The Arena

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Nathaniel S Shaler Shaler, Nathaniel Southgate (1841–1906) DSB
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, John H Keatley Keatley, John Henry (b. 1838) WBI
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, Arena Arena (1889–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Geology, Gas Chemistry, Industry | Mining


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 518.

The Forum

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Bradley A Fiske Fiske, Bradley Allen (1854–1942) WBI
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, Forum Forum (1886–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Military Technology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 519.

Harper's

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Park Benjamin Benjamin, Park (1849–1922) WBI
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, Harper's New Monthly Magazine Harper's New Monthly Magazine (1850–99) Harper's Monthly Magazine (1899–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Military Technology

People mentioned:

Bradley A Fiske Fiske, Bradley Allen (1854–1942) WBI
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 522.

Time

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Gottlieb W Leitner Leitner, Gottlieb William (1840–99) ODNB
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, Time Time (1879–91) Waterloo Directory
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Subjects:

Ethnography


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 525.

The French Reviews

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Revue des Deux Mondes Revue des Deux Mondes (1831–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Darwinism, Religion


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 531.

The Belgian Reviews

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Publications reviewed:

Revue Générale Revue Générale (1865–67) Journal Historique et Litteraire (1868–74) Revue Générale (1875–1900+) BUCOP
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Subjects:

Genius, Mental Illness

People mentioned:

Cesare Lombroso Lombroso, Cesare (1836–1909) CBD
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Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 533–34.

Some Foreign Military Periodicals

Anon

Genre:

Review, Abstract

Subjects:

Military Technology


Review of Reviews,  1 (1890), 537–38.

Our Scientific Causerie. By Mr. Grant Allen. The New Theory of Heredity

Mr Grant Allen, The Nook, Dorking Allen, Grant (Charles Grant Blairfindie) (1848–99) ODNB
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Genre:

Regular Feature, Essay

Subjects:

Specialization, Popularization, Science Communication, Heredity, Evolution, Sex, Psychology, Controversy

People mentioned:

Herbert Spencer, Spencer, Herbert (1820–1903) DSB
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Jean-Baptiste P A de Monet, chevalier de Lamarck, Lamarck, Jean Baptiste Pierre Antoine de Monet, chevalier de (1744–1829) DSB
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Erasmus Darwin, Darwin, Erasmus (1731–1802) DSB
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Alfred R Wallace, Wallace, Alfred Russel (1823–1913) DSB
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Theodor Eimer Eimer, Theodor (1843–98) WBI
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    Allen begins by disputing William T Stead's Stead, William Thomas (1849–1912) ODNB
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contention that the Review of Reviews Review of Reviews (1890–1900+) Waterloo Directory
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should regularly print 'a couple of pages of summary' of the latest scientific thought. He asserts that the 'Editor says science has made itself into a Brahmin caste, which holds aloof from the people. Perhaps so; but as the people will not hear, how is that to be remedied?'. (537) Science, he insists, cannot be explained 'off-hand in so short a space to the general public' and no real knowledge can be gained by 'glancing over a page or two of criticism in a general review'. This, he admits, will 'be heresy to the editor'. (538) Allen nevertheless gives a two-page summary of 'the question that now most profoundly agitates the breast [...] of the biologists': the nature of heredity. He expounds the theory of the inheritance of acquired characteristics held by 'the older evolutionists' who proposed that 'function largely preceded and determined structure'. Even Charles R Darwin Darwin, Charles Robert (1809–82) DSB
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, he notes, 'grew gradually in his later years to recognise more and more the importance of this additional factor in evolution'. (537) More recently, however, August F L Weismann's Weismann, August Friedrich Leopold (1834–1914) DSB
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experimental work on germ-plasm has suggested that 'there can be no inheritance of acquired faculties'. Weismann's view, moreover, 'has been enthusiastically accepted in England by the younger Darwinian school'. At the same time though, this hypothesis cannot account for 'the origin of Mind, which has hitherto always been explained by evolutionists as a result of inheritance of accumulated habits', and 'a reaction has set in' against it among many eminent biologists . The 'present state of the biological world', he concludes, is 'divided into an ultra-Darwinian or Weismannesque faction on the one side, and a partly Lamarckian or Spencerian body on the other'. (538)



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