Rede, gehalten bei der Eröffnung der Versammlung deutscher Naturforscher und Ärzte in Berlin, am 18. September 1828

In his speech delivered at the opening of the meeting of German natural scientists and physicians in Berlin on September 18, 1828, Alexander von Humboldt expressed his gratitude for the honor of being chosen to address the gathering. He acknowledged that he had not previously attended one of their meetings, but he emphasized that his long absence from Germany and his work in distant parts of the world had not diminished his commitment to the shared goals of the group.

Humboldt went on to highlight the importance of scientific collaboration and the exchange of ideas. He argued that by working together, scientists could make greater progress in understanding the natural world. He also stressed the need for public support of science, as well as the importance of science education.

In the latter part of his speech, Humboldt turned his attention to specific areas of scientific research that he believed were particularly promising. He discussed the potential of new instruments and techniques, such as the microscope and the telescope, to open up new avenues of discovery. He also spoke about the importance of studying the Earth as a whole system, including the interactions between the atmosphere, the oceans, and the land.

Humboldt concluded his speech by calling on the assembled scientists to continue their work with dedication and enthusiasm. He expressed his confidence that, through their efforts, they could make significant contributions to human knowledge and well-being.

Key points of the speech:

• The importance of scientific collaboration and the exchange of ideas
• The need for public support of science and science education
• The promise of new instruments and techniques for scientific discovery
• The importance of studying the Earth as a whole system
• The call for scientists to continue their work with dedication and enthusiasm