platypus

July 15, 2005 8:43 AM

I'm looking for a history of the western, scientific reaction to the platypus. Specifically, but not limited to, George Shaw's suspicion that the animal was a hoax. I have found many bits and pieces , but am looking for for the whole thing stitched together - thanks.
posted by R. Mutt to science & nature (7 comments total)

Perhaps not what you're looking for, but I suggest reading Robert Pirsig's Lila (the sequel to Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance). In it, he talks about the debate that surrounded the platypus.
posted by Clay201 at 9:14 AM on July 15, 2005

This page has some info and also mentions a book that may be exactly what you're looking for.
posted by null terminated at 9:17 AM on July 15, 2005

I have an book by Willy Ley titled Exotic Zoology that contains a fairly detailed account. If you can't find a copy I'd be happy to scan it for you -- e-mail's in my profile.
posted by j.edwards at 9:44 AM on July 15, 2005

A book that deals with this question, and the question of the Rhino (which Mr. Marco Polo thought was a very gray, very un-delicate unicorn), is Kant and the Platapus.

It's however, by Umberto Eco, so it's quite hard to read (50% fascinating history and philosophy, 25% really really arcane jokes that you know are funny, if only you could figure them out, and 25% references to books, people, literary movements, architecture and statues in the ancient world that you can't even assess as true or false). It's more of the philosophical / semiotic meaning of an animal that does not fit into any category than a historical account. Though if I recall, it includes LOTS of history, including the primary source letters that the discoverers wrote back and forth to eachother. Whic read like an Instant Message -- "OMG!!1! It lays eggs!!111"
posted by zpousman at 10:40 AM on July 15, 2005

I just found the Eco book in NYC's East Village, and already have had a laugh at a wonderful quote: ,"I used to be indecisive, but now I'm not sure."

I also found the Ann Moyal book in Union Square. Its a perfect overview of the story. Tomorrow I'll look for the other books at the Strand. All of this is exactly what I was looking for.

Thanks for your help. (You guys are great.)
posted by R. Mutt at 6:53 PM on July 15, 2005

Also, Terry Pratchett in The Lost Continent, had the best explanation of where they came from that I've ever read. ;)
posted by dejah420 at 10:00 PM on July 15, 2005

Stephen J. Gould, in his book "Bully for Brontosaurus" has a chapter called "To be a Platypus", which covers the history of the discovery along with the normal Gould evolutionary biology discussion.
posted by gemmy at 11:03 PM on July 15, 2005