Investigating a scientific legend: the tropinone synthesis of Sir Robert Robinson, F. R. S

Abstract

Let us learn to dream, there do we find the truth, but let us test our dreams in practice before revealing them. (A. Kekulé) 1. OBJECTIVES I examine through one research example, the tropinone synthesis of Sir Robert Robinson, F.R.S., several matters of broad scientific importance. One is whether the origin of an influential idea of a long-past period can be defined with some degree of certainty even if not spelled out in any primary publication, and to what extent its origin can be consciously related to the temperament of its formulator and his environment. I reflect on the extent to which developments in a rational scientific field can nevertheless be ‘subconscious’. I examine the broader implications of a scientific ‘legend’, even if incorrect: here the general belief that Robinson’s bio- genetic ideas suggested his laboratory tropinone synthesis. Despite its lack of ‘historical’ truth, I indicate why the legend was immensely influential on natural- product chemistry and on Robinson’s career, embodying a deeper ‘scientific’ truth. I adopt an historian’s approach to published work over a widely relevant area, assessing novel ideas against theories and practicalities of the time and location, aided by inquiries and assessments of conclusions from any survivors of the era. My approach requires a first-hand understanding of the psychology of research scientists and of science from a viewpoint not too close but close enough, to the topic, to the personalities and to the situation, with calculated corrections made for ‘hindsight’.