The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) invites the public to "Linneaus,
God's Registrar," a presentation by Dr. James P. Smith, Jr., on Wednesday,
October 14, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. at Six Rivers Masonic Lodge, 251 Bayside Road,
near 7th and Union in Arcata.
Carolus Linnaeus was the most famous scientist of his time. With the possible
exception of Albert Einstein, no other modern figure comes close to the level of
recognition that he enjoyed with the general public. His monumental works on
plants and animals are the starting point of the nomenclature of these groups.
Look through any technical flora or treatment of animals and you will soon
encounter Linnaeus, L., or (L.) as part of a scientific name. He named literally
thousands of plants and animals, which led to his being called "God's Registrar."
But there is so much more to this fascinating, if not entirely admirable,
individual. Dr. James P. Smith, Jr., Professor of Botany, Emeritus, at Humboldt
State University will review Linnaeus' life, the intellectual environment in
which he worked, and his varied contributions to science. Why did he stop
practicing medicine? Why were some of his botanical works banned? Was he a
creationist? And, did he actually develop the system of naming plants and
animals that we still use today? Doors open at 7:00 p.m. for refreshments, socializing, and sales. The North
Coast Chapter of CNPS offers free public programs on the second Wednesday of
each month, September through May. 822-2015, www.northcoastcnps.org.