During Thomas Jefferson’s lifetime he was recognized for his knowledge in science. He was a skilled mathematician and astronomer. He was considered by many to be an expert in anatomy, physics, mechanics, meteorology, and botany. He was also regarded as a pioneer in ethnology, geography, anthropology, and paleontology. Jefferson considered himself an amateur scientist, yet was well advanced compared to other scientists of the time. Jefferson did not take the time to become proficient in any particular field of science. He chose to aid and encourage others in the studies of the details.

On the other hand Benjamin Franklin was the type of individual to take the pursuit of science one-step further. Franklin was primarily

Franklin invented a fuel-efficient wood burning stove and bifocals, both of which are still in use today. Both of these inventions were very popular with the public and would have brought Franklin a good living financially if he had chosen to patent them. He did not do so. He believed that we enjoy great advantages from the inventions of others and that he would happily serve others through the free sharing his inventions. An example of this is found in his autobiography where he tells of an ironworker in London who studied Franklin’s description of his wood-burning stove, made some small changes in it, and got it patented. The ironworker made a great deal of money from this patent. Franklin never had the desire to contest thievery such as this because he had no desire to profit from his work and hated disputes in general.

Jefferson was not close-minded about new discoveries or new theories even when they were contrary to his own beliefs. This was due to his belief that science was an essential element to society. He saw science as being practical in nature and that it provided great benefits to humanity . He always looked for the practical application of what he learned from his studies. He never wasted his time studying things just to be curious but inste

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