Reflections on the Decline of Science in England   By: Charles Babbage (1792-1871)

In "Reflections on the Decline of Science in England," seminal figure Charles Babbage explores a pressing concern of his time — the waning influence and diminishing progress of science in his home country. Published in 1830, Babbage's work presents a scathing critique of the state of scientific pursuit in England, highlighting various factors that have contributed to its perceived decline.

Babbage, widely regarded as the father of the computer, brings his formidable intellect and erudition to bear in this thought-provoking treatise. He begins by elucidating the importance of science and its capacity to drive societal advancement, asserting that England has historically been a hub of scientific discovery. However, he laments that a shift has occurred, leaving the country's scientific community in a dormant state, lagging behind other nations.

One of the main issues Babbage identifies is the lack of institutional support for scientific research. He argues that England's educational system — from schools to universities — has failed to provide scientists with the necessary resources to pursue groundbreaking work. Furthermore, Babbage contends that the British government's negligence in funding scientific endeavors has impeded progress. He contrasts this with other countries, such as France and Germany, where scientific research is zealously backed by the state, resulting in significant advancements.

Babbage also examines the social barriers faced by scientists in England, emphasizing the prevailing anti-intellectual sentiment. He laments that scientists often face ridicule and have difficulty gaining recognition for their work in society. This stifles innovation and discourages aspiring scientists from fully pursuing their passions. Babbage contends that a cultural shift is necessary to reinvigorate scientific curiosity and bolster the status of scientists in England.

Throughout the book, Babbage draws on his own experiences and observations to support his arguments, offering compelling anecdotes and evidence. His critique of the Royal Society, England's prestigious scientific institution, is particularly scathing, highlighting its bureaucratic and self-serving tendencies. Babbage believes that the Royal Society has lost its original purpose and calls for its reform to better serve the scientific community.

While "Reflections on the Decline of Science in England" raises important questions about the state of science in the 19th century and its impact on societal progress, some readers may find Babbage's arguments overly bitter and pessimistic. His tone, at times, borders on disillusionment and frustration, which may limit the book's appeal to a wider audience.

Nonetheless, Babbage's insights are impossible to ignore. His work served as a wake-up call for the scientific community in England, prompting introspection and spurring reforms in the following decades. Babbage's concerns about the decline of science in his country continue to resonate and serve as a cautionary tale for the importance of investing in scientific research and nurturing scientific talent.

"Reflections on the Decline of Science in England" is a seminal text, offering a critical perspective on the state of scientific pursuit during an era of immense change. Babbage's impassioned plea for reform remains relevant even today and serves as a reminder of the crucial role science plays in shaping our future.

First Page:

Of the causes which have induced me to print this volume I have little to say; my own opinion is, that it will ultimately do some service to science, and without that belief I would not have undertaken so thankless a task. That it is too true not to make enemies, is an opinion in which I concur with several of my friends, although I should hope that what I have written will not give just reason for the permanence of such feelings. On one point I shall speak decidedly, it is not connected in any degree with the calculating machine on which I have been engaged; the causes which have led to it have been long operating, and would have produced this result whether I had ever speculated on that subject, and whatever might have been the fate of my speculations... Continue reading book >>