Living Messages from Chemistry Icons: Legacies with Contemporary Relevance

Beyond individual scientific virtuosity and creativity that leading figures in chemistry have displayed, they have sometimes conveyed wider messages of significance beyond their own professional specialization. They include insights into broader aspects of science, society or the ways of the world. On the other hand, the words, attitudes and actions of eminent chemists from former times have not always presented good models for others to follow, whether judged by their own contemporary or our present standards. Both positive and negative lessons may convey to us something about humanity in general or the nature of our current predicaments and challenges. In an era when science is more necessary than ever to help meet oncoming global challenges, yet the principles and results of science are irrationally questioned, it is particularly relevant to re-connect with the broad insights and messages that can be derived from examining the thoughts and deeds of chemistry icons from the past.