The Evolution of Medicine: A Historical Perspective

Medicine advances ever faster, and with it not just a capacity to overcome sickness, but to transform the very nature of life. Starting in ancient times, this text charts how this health revolution came about and how life for human beings in the West has ceased, in Hobbes' memorable phrase, to be nasty, brutish and short. Porter plots the growth of medical specialisms - pharmacology, physiology, anatomy, neurology, bacteriology - and the institutions of medicine - the hospital and asylum - to show how medical advances have often created as many problems as they have solved. The book also shows how the ancient Egyptians treated incipient baldness with a mixture of hippopotamus, lion, crocodile, goose, snake and ibex fat; how a mystery epidemic devastated ancient Athens and brought to an end the domination of that great city; and how lemons did as much as Nelson to defeat Napolean.

This text offers a historical overview of medical advancements from ancient times to the present, highlighting how these developments have improved human life and transformed society. It covers the rise of various medical specialties and institutions, such as hospitals, while also acknowledging that medical progress has sometimes led to new challenges. Notable historical examples include ancient Egyptian treatments for baldness and the impact of an epidemic on ancient Athens.

The book outlines the evolution of medical practices throughout history.
It discusses the dual nature of medical advancements, which can create new problems.
Historical examples illustrate the significance of medicine in shaping societies.

What does the book focus on?

The book focuses on the history of medicine and its impact on human life from ancient times to the present.

How has medicine changed human life according to the text?

Medicine has transformed life by reducing suffering and improving health, moving society away from a "nasty, brutish, and short" existence.

What are some historical examples mentioned in the text?

The text mentions ancient Egyptian treatments for baldness and a significant epidemic that affected ancient Athens.