Why did Carolus Linnaeus promote research on Swedish products and resources?
Carolus Linnaeus promoted research on Swedish products and resources as an ardent believer in cameralist economy, a system that sought to improve bureaucratic practices to strengthen the monarchyâs position. He held the conviction that a nation's welfare depended on science-based administration.1
To support this goal, Linnaeus undertook research travels within Sweden to identify domestic products that could serve as substitutes for expensive imports. These efforts, which he viewed as patriotic projects, resulted in several significant publications, including Flora Suecica (1745; "Swedish Plants") and Fauna Suecica (1746; "Swedish Animals"). Additionally, he promoted the creation of economics chairs at Swedish universities and helped found the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences to further advance scientific research for the betterment of his home country.12