What does Victor learn from M.Waldman? How does Victor think of his older science as opposed to modern science?

Victor learns about modern natural philosophy from M. Waldman, who is a chemistry teacher. Victor prefers his older science as it is a quest for power and immortality. Waldman corrects Victor, noting that modern scientists are studying the mysteries of nature... gaining unlimited power.

"I am happy," said M. Waldman, "to have gained a disciple; and if your application equals your ability, I have no doubt of your success. Chemistry is that branch of natural philosophy in which the greatest improvements have been and may be made; it is on that account that I have made it my peculiar study; but at the same time, I have not neglected the other branches of science. A man would make but a very sorry chemist if he attended to that department of human knowledge alone. If your wish is to become really a man of science and not merely a petty experimentalist, I should advise you to apply to every branch of natural philosophy, including mathematics."