Artificial Parthenogenesis and Fertilization (1913), by Jacques Loeb

Jacques Loeb [5] is best known for his embryological work investigating parthenogenesis in invertebrates. Artificial Parthenogenesis and Fertilization [4] is a revised and English-translated work from his earlier book, Die chemische Entwicklungserregung des tierischen Eies (1900). Artificial Parthenogenesis [6] describes Loeb?s many and varied methodical experiments to initiate egg [7] development without fertilization [8] by sperm [9]. As is true with much of science, some of Loeb?s experiments were successful and many were not. Artificial Parthenogenesis [6] presents a sense of what early twentieth century embryology [10] looked like: experimenters? overarching desire for manipulation and control, coupled with their use of chemicals and macromolecules as agents of change. The book also illuminates the historical role of the sea urchin [11] in the study of embryological development.