The pursuit of scientific knowledge has always entailed life-and-death stakes, illustrated by historical expeditions like the 1803 smallpox vaccination efforts and the quests of Carl Linnaeus' followers. Their dangerous journeys resulted in numerous fatalities due to diseases. Jason Roberts' biography, Every Living Thing, presents an in-depth exploration of Linnaeus and Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, revealing their differing philosophies towards knowledge. While Linnaeus' classifications represented a desire to dominate nature and people, Buffon's work encapsulated a gentler understanding of existence. The interplay of knowledge, power, and mortality shapes the legacy of these Enlightenment figures.
The effort to classify life by Carl Linnaeus not only created the systematic naming of species but also embodied an attempt to dominate nature and people, reflecting colonial impulses.
Jason Roberts’ exploration of Carl Linnaeus and Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, illuminates the contrasting philosophies of knowledge as a tool for domination versus understanding.
The adventures of 18th century naturalists were perilous, with many such as Christopher Tarnstrom and Pehr Lofling dying of diseases in their quest to classify living species.
Every Living Thing: The Great and Deadly Race to Know All Life by Jason Roberts reveals the complex legacy of Enlightenment scientists and their dual roles in knowledge and colonialism.
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