Abstract:
This paper traces the rise of interest in microscopic fossils, especially from the sixteen sixties when Leeuwenhoek’s development of the forerunner of the microscope made their detailed study possible, through the several centuries of their sporadic investigation, chiefly by isolated individual scientists in the interests of pure research, to the birth of the utilitarian science of micropaleontology a quarter-century ago. The developmental phases of the science are outlined, and the progressive multiplication of the micropaleontologic groups studied is considered.
The origin and growth of micropaleontology as a subject in university curricula are reviewed, and suggestions are made for the future expansion and improvement of training in this special field. In addition, brief consideration is given to the general academic background the prospective paleontologist should acquire in order best to serve his science as well as prove most valuable to the organization which purchases his services.
Finally the future of the science of micropaleontology is analyzed, and suggestions are made for the direction of efforts into lines of investigation which may prove profitable in enlarging the scientific scope and significance of the field, and thus in enhancing its commercial significance.
