A pioneering critic of Alexander von Humboldt’s inventions: Francisco José de Caldas

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18443/372

Keywords:

invention; self-representation; reception; biogeography; geographical profiles; scientific simultaneity

Abstract

Abstract

Alexander von Humboldt has been praised and criticized throughout history depending on different readings and interests. The account of his encounters during his American voyage can shed light on the foundations for criticism and praise. This essay addresses the critical attitude of botanist and astronomer Francisco José de Caldas towards Alexander von Humboldt in years 1801 to 1803.

Resumen

Alexander von Humboldt ha sido exaltado y criticado a través de la historia en función de lecturas e intereses diversos. La relación de sus encuentros en el curso de su viaje americano puede dar luces sobre el fundamento de las críticas y los elogios. Este ensayo aborda la actitud crítica del botánico y astrónomo Francisco José de Caldas hacia Alexander von Humboldt en los años 1801 a 1803.

Résumé

Alexander von Humboldt a été loué et critiqué tout au long de l'histoire, en fonction des lectures et des intérêts particuliers. Le récit de ses rencontres lors de son voyage en Amérique peut éclairer les fondements des critiques et des éloges. Cet essai traite de l'attitude critique du botaniste et astronome Francisco José de Caldas à l'égard d'Alexander von Humboldt dans les années 1801 à 1803.

Author Biography

Alberto Gómez Gutiérrez, Professor Dr

Biologist and Microbiologist at Universidad de los Andes. PhD in Biochemistry at University of Paris. Author of more than 150 scientific articles and 12 books on the history of scientific expeditions in Colombia, including Humboldt's contacts in New Granada in the 5-volume Humboldtiana neogranadina (2018). Member of the Colombian Academy of Sciences, the Colombian Academy of History, the National Academy of Medicine, the Colombian Academy of Language, the Royal Spanish-American Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters, and Fellow of the Linnean Society of London.

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Published

2024-11-22

How to Cite

Gómez Gutiérrez, A. (2024). A pioneering critic of Alexander von Humboldt’s inventions: Francisco José de Caldas. HiN - Alexander Von Humboldt in the Net. International Review for Humboldt Studies, 25(49), 19–40. https://doi.org/10.18443/372

Issue

Vol. 25 No. 49 (2024)

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2024 Alberto GOMEZ

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