Watson Davis

Watson Davis (1896-1967) has done more for the popularization of science and the understanding of science by the general public than any other individual.

Life

Davis was President and founder of ADI. He devised methods for popularizing the study of science in general. He was editor of Science Service and Science News Letter. He was also Director of the Science Clubs of America, which he saw as an "educational force for the future" (Current Biography). The documentation division of Science Services was established in 1935 and was the "nucleus of ADI" which was organized in 1937. Through ADI, Davis sought to solve the problems "surrounding publication, bibliography, library facilities, etc."

Glenn J. Seaborg, chairman of AEC, noted that "Watson Davis has done more for the popularization of science and the understanding of science by the general public than any other individual." According to Richards, Davis was "the pioneer microfilm enthusiast." Davis saw microfilm as "basis for a data and information revolution" (Burke). In 1934, Davis attempted to create an ILL program-the Bibliofilm Service at the NAL. He wanted to "create a constantly updated world bibliography of science" (Burke).

Contributions

Microfilm, ILL Program, and methods of popularizing the study of science. Davis worked at Science Service; ADI.

OFFICES:

Science Service Secretary 1923; Science Service Pres. 1933; ADI/ASIS Pres. 1937-1946