An introductory discourse [on the principles of chemical science], delivered in the amphitheatre of the London Institution. On Wednesday the 5th of May, 1819 / by William Thomas Brande.

  • Brande, William Thomas, 1788-1866.
Date:
1819
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: An introductory discourse [on the principles of chemical science], delivered in the amphitheatre of the London Institution. On Wednesday the 5th of May, 1819 / by William Thomas Brande. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    itself, but extended to colonies far distant from the metropolis, and very different with respect to climate*.” There are writers who have told us, that there is a tide in the arts and sciences which always tends to their elevation and declen^ siori; and further, that when they come to perfection in any state, they necessarily de¬ cline, and seldom or never revive in that nation where they had formerly flourished. To the general truth of these remarks his¬ tory and experience oblige us to assent; but, insead of resting content with the fact, and acquiescing in its necessity, let us en¬ deavour to trace it up to its cause, and to ascertainwhether such fluctuations are really ordained by nature, or whether they arise from the untoward propensities of man. In thus viewing the subject, it will pre¬ sently be apparent, that there are direct and immediate causes for that obliteration and declension of science and art that wre have just adverted to; that it has always # See the Abbe Andres, as quoted in Mr. Roscoe’s Discourse, delivered at the opening of the Liverpool Royal Institution.