Science embattled

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Górny’s study examines the political engagement of science during WWI in Eastern Europe from 1912 to 1923. Intellectuals in this region, influenced by the tradition of ‘national characterology,’ integrated contemporary sciences such as physical anthropology, psychiatry, and anthropogeography into their discourse. The intellectual contributions from the East did not fundamentally differ in quality or strategy from those on the Western front; however, their political ties proved to be more enduring and impactful. By incorporating Eastern Europe into the historiographical debate on ‘the war of the spirits,’ the study broadens the geographical focus of existing research and enhances our understanding of the European dimensions of this phenomenon. It explores the interplay between transnational academic communication and the ‘nationalization’ of science, as well as the transfer of academic paradigms and personnel, shedding light on cross-national scholarly disputes. The comparative analysis highlights the unique characteristics of East Central and South-Eastern Europe, indicating that the involvement of science in nation- and state-building processes began well before 1914 and continued beyond 1918. This work is also noted for its quality of writing.