Dr. Dietrich is examining the life of one of the most controversial and enigmatic figures in twentieth century biology, Richard B. Goldschmidt. Known now for his heretical denial of gradual evolution and the existence of the gene, in his time Goldschmidt was controversial but recognized as one of the top biologists in Germany and later in the United States. Dr. Dietrich is examining the development of Goldschmidt's scientific thought, the impact of his forced immigration to a radically different institutional setting in the United States, and the creation and perpetuation of his status as a heretic. This project promises to contribute significantly to the history of biology in the twentieth century by clarifying important issues concerning styles of scientific practice, the dynamics of scientific controversy, and the uses of history in scientific rhetoric.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Social and Economic Sciences (SES)
Application #
9412384
Program Officer
Edward J. Hackett
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1994-07-01
Budget End
1995-12-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1994
Total Cost
$30,000
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California Davis
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Davis
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
95618