The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt's New World

Humboldt returns to Europe after his extensive explorations in the Americas, specifically landing in Paris in 1804. The city welcomes him as a scientific hero, bustling with both political change and intellectual fervor. France had transformed under Napoleon’s rule from a republic to an empire, with grand urban renovations reflecting this shift.

Humboldt, having gathered an impressive array of scientific data and specimens, chooses Paris as his new base due to its vibrant intellectual climate and lesser religious constraints on scientific inquiry. The city was now a leading center for science, with institutions like the Jardin des Plantes and the Natural History Museum expanding rapidly, fueled by the spoils of Napoleon’s campaigns.

Amidst this backdrop, Humboldt integrates into Parisian society, finding the city’s public and intellectual life immensely stimulating. The chapter describes Paris as a metropolis where life is lived outdoors and discussions of art and science fill the air. Humboldt thrives in this environment, connecting with prominent scientists such as Joseph Louis Gay-Lussac and engaging in cutting-edge research and discussions that challenge and expand the boundaries of contemporary scientific thought.

Humboldt is not only a dedicated scientist but also a man deeply engaged with the social and intellectual circles of Paris. Despite the political upheavals of the time, he remains focused on advancing his scientific understanding and sharing his knowledge, drawn to Paris’s liberal attitudes toward intellectual pursuits.