Intellectuals and Intellectualism

Thompson undoubtedly takes great pains to bring his audience along with him in a consideration of the concepts of growth and form. At no time, however, does he suggest the topic is easily simpli- fied. His very mode of explanation is proof positive of the level of intellectual engagement necessary to figure out biological mysteries such as the study of morphology presents. He supports his assertions by quoting classic philosophers and scientists as well as more contemporary intellectuals, references suggesting an engagement of rational, intelligent thought.

On the theory of transformations, or the comparison of related forms, in chapter 9, Thompson draws on the principle of Aristotelian "excess and defect" in a discussion of the comparison of related forms. The reference is timely and reiterates the same ideas present throughout the text. On Aristotle's definition of genus, or class of forms, the author states

he showed that...