ABSTRACT
I am now trying to reach a conclusion. I have tried to follow Utrecht University and the people who worked there with heart and soul on their journeys to distant lands. Their pursuits resulted in the discovery of ‘exotic’ flora and fauna, in encounters with diverse cultures, in exploration of varied religious systems, in insights into distinct geological formations, of raw materials and how to make the best use of them, in endeavours to combat threats to human and animal well-being, in ‘pure research’ in the laboratories at the forefront of emerging natural sciences, in involvement in the education of Dutch colonial officials guided by an exceedingly conservative ideology, in contributions to development assistance for emerging universities in former colonies, and participation in collaborative initiatives with scholars at these establishments.
