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A new foundation for the study of bird behaviour: Konrad Lorenz’s ‘Kumpan’ paper of 1935
(link.springer.com)
Summary made by Quivr/GPT-4
This document is a discussion about a scientific paper written by Lorenz, a pioneer in the field of ethology (the study of animal behavior). The paper, referred to as the "Kumpan" paper, was groundbreaking in its time and was published in the Journal für Ornithologie (JfO), edited by Stresemann.
The document reveals that Lorenz's paper was written not just for ornithologists, but also for psychologists and environmental researchers. The paper was intended to challenge the predominantly laboratory-based view of animal behavior held by American behaviorists, which Lorenz saw as artificial.
The document also discusses the difficulties Lorenz faced in writing the paper, including the need to explain concepts that were self-evident to ornithologists to a broader audience. Despite these challenges, Lorenz was determined to have his work published in the JfO, as acceptance by the journal would be sufficient for him to obtain a lectureship.
The document also reveals that Lorenz's paper was controversial when it was first published. It was long, written in a difficult philosophical language, and presented a new perspective on the study of animal behavior. Despite this, the paper was accepted by the JfO without any editorial changes, which was unusual given Stresemann's reputation as a strict editor.
The document also mentions that Lorenz's paper was immediately recognized by Margaret Morse Nice, a prominent American ornithologist, who produced a summary of the paper for English-speaking audiences.
In summary, this document discusses the challenges Lorenz faced in writing and publishing his groundbreaking paper on animal behavior, the controversy it caused upon publication, and its eventual recognition and influence in the field of ethology.