An Agenda for Antiquity: Henry Fairfield Osborn and Vertebrate Paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History, 1890-1935

摘要: Rainger examines how and why vertebrate paleontology, a relatively marginal field of scientific inquiry, flourished at New York s American Museum Natural History in the early 20th century. It focuses on Henry Fairfield Osborn (1857-1935), prominent scientist administrator who dominated paleontology that era played pivotal role creating leading institution manor program research field.Born into wealthy family, was unique position to follow vigorously his interests further worldwide science education through use considerable social, political, financial resources command. Yet he able guide development such manner as avoid conflict with values beliefs associated upper-class elite supported program.His ties wide network influential figures, including trustees Museum, provided him political necessary build major paleontology. An ambitious energetic man, took advantage those opportunities promote study establish himself Colombia University, Zoological Society."