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Lot #338
Ivan Pavlov

Bold letter from Pavlov to a leading American eugenicist

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Estimate: $4000+
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Description

Bold letter from Pavlov to a leading American eugenicist

Russian physiologist (1849-1936) best known for his investigation of conditioned reflex through the use of experiments involving salivating dogs. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1904. ALS in German, signed “I. Pavlov,” one page, 4.75 x 7.75, The Chemists' Club letterhead, September 6, [no year]. Boldly penned letter to dog writer and eugenicist Leon F. Whitney, the secretary of the American Eugenics Society, in full (translated): "I wish to thank you for the kind invitation by your dear wife and yourself. Regretfully I was unable to attend. I shall be reading your brochure at home and subsequently be discussing it with you in writing." In fine condition. A fascinating piece of correspondence from Pavlov—whose chief interest was controlling behavior through conditioning—to Whitney, a veterinarian who believed in controlling behavior through genetics. Whitney's controversial beliefs were largely informed by his knowledge of breeding dogs—Pavlov's most famous test subjects. An excellent and extremely desirable letter.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: March Auction
  • Dates: #523 - Ended March 07, 2018





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