The Invention of Nature

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Andrea Wulf

Science & Nature

Aug 3, 2018

As Andrea Wulf makes clear in this marvelous biography, Alexander von Humboldt’s holistic view of nature “as a network of forces and interrelationships” played a significant role in advancing ecological thinking and thereby gave rise to modern conceptions of the environment. Detailing with verve and erudition Humboldt’s exploits as an explorer in far-flung corners of the world, Wulf also reveals the extraordinary extent of his reputation in his own lifetime. In his day (born in 1769, he died ninety years later), he was the most famous scientist in the world and an international celebrity. This long, rich, information-packed biography repays leisurely attention at the same time as it stimulates one’s thinking about fundamental issues. “Humboldt was not so much interested in finding new isolated facts but in connecting them,” Wulf writes. A reader can thankfully say the same of the author of this delightful book.

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DreesReads

Nov 4, 2018

It is amazing that one man affected the fields of biology, botany, geography, and more. We have barely heard of Humboldt (other than his current, or the city, the university, whatever) BECAUSE his work is so normalized it just is. Fabulously researched and written.

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Carol Ann Weaver

Mar 23

I love this book. It was a delightful and informative read.

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Carol Ann Weaver

Mar 23

I knew that California has a city named Humboldt, and it is named after him! https://goldfieldsbooks.com/2018/05/23/who-was-humboldt-and-why-are-there-so-many-things-named-after-him/

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