Abstract
Drest in a little brief authority
Most ignorant of what he’s most assured,
His glassy essence, like an angry ape,
Plays such fantastic tricks before high heaven,
As make the angels weep.
Following a brief statement on the course of fisheries development in this century some views on
the present state and future of world fisheries are noticed and some evidence from which these views
have been taken is examined. The frequently expressed pessimistic view is rejected although the
reasons for it are recognised. Grounds upon which it is argued that an optimistic view is justified are
set out and suggestions are made as to what is required for realisation of the potentials of this industry.
Proposals are made as to institutional forms and administrative procedures and reasons are given for
believing that fisheries science has a special role to play in the rehabilitation and extension of the
fisheries.