Thomas Henry Huxley 
On the Method of Zadig 
Essay #1 from ‘Science and Hebrew Tradition’

In his book ‘On the Method of Zadig’, Thomas Henry Huxley explores the use of empirical evidence and scientific reasoning in problem-solving, inspired by Voltaire’s character Zadig. Huxley’s work reflects the intellectual climate of the 19th century, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and observation in scientific inquiry. The book is written in a clear and logical style, making it accessible to a wide audience interested in the intersections of philosophy and science. Huxley’s use of Zadig as a literary device adds a creative element to his discussion of scientific methodology, offering readers a fresh perspective on the subject. Thomas Henry Huxley, known as

Circa l’autore

Thomas Henry Huxley (1825–1895) was a prominent English biologist, known principally for his staunch advocacy of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and for his pioneering work in comparative anatomy and paleontology. Huxley’s contributions to the scientific community were profound, earning him the moniker ‘Darwin’s Bulldog’ for his spirited defense of evolutionary theory against religious and scientific opposition. A prolific writer and speaker, Huxley’s oeuvre includes ‘On the Method of Zadig’ (1880), a treatise embodying his approach to scientific inquiry based on the forensic search for evidence and inferential reasoning, drawing from Voltaire’s tale of Zadig in stressing the importance of interpretation in natural history. His literary style is characterized by clarity, directness, and a dedication to the scientific method, underscored by his foundational role in establishing nature as the core of biological study. Huxley’s ardor for education reform and his efforts to make science accessible to the public are reflected in his other significant works such as ‘Evidence as to Man’s Place in Nature’ (1863) and ‘Science and Education’ (1893). His enduring influence is marked by his establishment of biology as a distinct modern science. Huxley’s erudition and public engagement have left an indelible mark on both the scientific landscape and the broader cultural understanding of human origins and the natural world.