Admire the panel depicting Aristotle teaching Alexander, the top left image on the bronze doors of the National Academy of Sciences on the National Mall in Washington, D. C. The neoclassical design of the entire building, completed in 1924, was by the eminent architect Bertram Goodhue.

The Academy was conceived as a “Temple of Science”. Aristotle takes precedence over all the other, later scientists, including Copernicus, Galileo and Darwin. He seems to be beckoning Alexander away from the pursuit of war, indicated by his shield and helmet, and towards scientific endeavour.