Punch,  63 (1872), 97.

A Philosopher's Pet

Anon

Genre:

News-Commentary

Relevant illustrations:

wdct.

Illustrators:

A C *

Subjects:

Entomology, Animal Behaviour, Industry, Societies, Cultural Geography, Politics


    Relates the story of a pet eel kept by a 'learned Fellow of a certain University'. Reports on the account of a 'tame wasp' given by John Lubbock at the meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science. Notes that Lubbock's taming of the wasp was not unprecedented and cites the example of 'Industrious Fleas'. Hopes other insects could be 'brought up to practise some branch of industry' and lists a wide variety of insects that Lubbock might be able to tame. Suggests that anyone who can tame hornets should be appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and pacify the 'Irish hornet's nest'. Believes that Lubbock is suitable for this position, owing to his gentility and 'extraordinary attainment in science'.



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