This work investigates the historical progression of biological science by examining the lives and contributions of the individuals who shaped the field. William Locy, a professor of biology, provides a chronological account of the development of biological thought, focusing on the transition from early natural history to the modern scientific method. The text argues that understanding the history of biology is essential for grasping the current state of the discipline.

Historians of science recognize this text as a classic survey that provides a clear, accessible entry point into the history of biological thought. Readers frequently note that while the prose reflects the academic style of the early 20th century, it remains a valuable resource for understanding the foundational milestones of the life sciences.