Abstract science in America, 1776-1876
The paper written by the famous American scientist — astronomer, physicist, and economist S. Newcomb (1835—1909) reviews the development of American science in the 19th century. The author analyzes factors of the poor state of science in the USA and compares institutional and organizational features of science in America and in Europe. He shows that the USA lags behind not because of the lack of intellectual potential (such as low level of education), but due to the lack of interest on the part of society and to the absence of demand for science. It is possible to overcome this indifference if the society realizes the importance of abstract science and enormous practical opportunities stemming from it.