Huxley, Sir Julian

Huxley, Sir Julian (Sorell)

(born June 22, 1887, London, Eng.—died Feb. 14, 1975, London) British biologist, philosopher, and author. He was a grandson of T.H. Huxley and brother of Aldous Huxley. His research on hormones, developmental processes, ornithology, and ethology influenced the modern development of embryology, classification, and studies of behaviour and evolution. He applied his scientific knowledge to social and political problems, formulating an ethical theory of “evolutionary humanism.” His many books written for the general public, including The Science of Life (1931; with H.G. Wells), were widely read. He served as the first director-general of UNESCO (1946–48).