I can't say much about Gould's strengths as a scientist, but for a long time I've regarded him as the second most influential historian of science (next to Thomas Kuhn).
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author acknowledges uncertainty about another scientist's strengths but rates them as the second most influential historian of science.
- In plain terms
- I'm unsure of his science skills but he is a top science historian.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize impact in specific fields even with limited personal knowledge.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we judge influence?
- What makes a great historian?
Another view
The author claims limited knowledge yet makes a definitive ranking.
More from Stephen Jay Gould
Now it is not very hard to find out, if you spend a little while reading in evolution, that Gould is the John Kenneth Galbraith of his subject. That is, he is …
Permalink to quote #181 Most of the subjects Steve dealt with were meant to be illustrative precisely of the complexity and diversity of the processes and products of evolution. Despi…
Permalink to quote #183 Gould occupies a rather curious position, particularly on this side of the Atlantic. Because of the excellence of his essays, he has come to be seen by non-bio…
Permalink to quote #180
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