Page:Popular Science Monthly Volume 36.djvu/253

Rh Species" was the launching of the evolutionary movement, and, without discussing the validity of the doctrine, it is safe to say that it has given rise to the most forcible and puissant school of philosophy of the present day, and has affected science, in its myriad branches, more profoundly than any other scientific generalization since Newton's conception of the pervading force of gravitation.

During the early existence of the society the meetings were held in Gresham College, where many of its members were professors. In 1710 the society removed to Crane Court. In 1780 the president, Sir Joseph Banks, was instrumental in securing from the Government more comfortable accommodations in Somerset House. Their present location is at Burlington House, whither they moved in 1857. The meetings are held every Thursday at 4.30, from November to June; and of the communications read before the society, a "Committee of Papers" selects the most noteworthy for publication in the "Philosophical Transactions" or the "Proceedings of the Royal Society." Since the presidency of Sir Joseph Banks, membership in the society has been much more difficult to attain than formerly, from the great number of applicants for the limited vacancies to be filled each year. Each application for membership must be signed by six Fellows, three of whom must be personally acquainted with the applicant. From a list of such applicants, as it is often a long one, the Council of the society on the first Thursday of June each year selects fifteen by ballot, which selection is usually ratified by the society without change.

There is a corresponding class of foreign members, fifty in number, which includes the names of the foremost scientists throughout the world. No scientist is so eminent but feels honored by being elected Fellow of this ancient corporation, and to have one's labors crowned by one of its medals is a mark of the highest distinction.