The Scientific Study of the Sea Between Science and Politics State, Laboratories and Scientists (1910-1929)

Abstract

Studying the institutionalization process of marine biology in Portugal is mandatory to understand the scientific study of the sea, a space which was very unknown in the beginning of the 20^th century. Starting with the first experimental stations, the Estação da Foz and the Estação de Biologia Marítima, whose activity took place in the European Atlantic, we aim to understand the role of the different actors; their influence in the definition, or not, of public policies concerning the ocean; and to identify cases of intersection between science, politics, and economy. Despite the existence of initiatives prior to the Republic period (1910-1926), it was among this context that the indispensable conditions would be created to the disciplinary affirmation of the marine biology and the training of specialists, by the government support and by the public valorisation of scientific institutions. Starting from an extensive analysis of the printed sources available in public archives and libraries, under the history of science perspective, it became evident the advantage of the state model in the development of establishments dedicated to research, enabling a rich dialogue between science, the State strategical needs and the definition of public policies of ocean governance, within the scope of ICES.

Keywords:
Marine Biology; Scientific Institutes and Laboratories; Public Policies