Uses of History in an Historical Science: Learning from Traditions in Geology
Different academic disciplines are affected by their history and react toward history in various and sometimes changeable ways. Geology is by far the most historical science in its operational approach to problem solving. Religious, cultural, and political overtones undeniably permeated many aspects of unfolding geological thought during the last few centuries. Despite these influences, the sustained success of applied geology as a predictive tool for the location of natural resources has generated a highly tolerant climate for pure geological research within a broad array of societal systems. Thus, the main influence of history on the continuing evolution of the discipline has been supportive in a remarkably steady way. Geologists tend to react to their history conservatively, seeking no realignments. This relationship is underscored by the fact that the discipline of geology entered the academic arena only after proving itself in the practical world. Geologists were once the unchallenged students of their own history. Historians of science now claim an increasing, if not exclusive role as interpreters of the more subtle inter-relationships between science and society. Practicing geologists will continue their indulgence in history, however, if only to find a measure of continuity in their work, learn moral lessons about the conduct of their science, and gain valuable career perspective.