Santorio Santori and the Emergence of Quantified Medicine, 1614-1790: Corpuscularianism, Technology and Experimentation

This book explores Santorio Santori's life and works, highlighting his contributions to medicine and natural philosophy. It emphasizes his invention of scientific instruments and his role in developing corpuscularian ideas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 421 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the life and remarkable contributions of Santorio Santori, a renowned figure in the history of medicine and natural philosophy. Widely regarded as the father of experimental medicine and procedures, Santori is also celebrated for his invention of numerous scientific instruments, including early precision medical devices such as pulsimeters, hygrometers, thermometers, and anemometers. Moreover, his contributions extend to clinical and surgical tools, revolutionizing the field of medicine.

The chapters in this volume explore Santorio's legacy spanning the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. They shed light on the significant role played by medical practitioners like Santorio in the development of corpuscularian ideas, which were central to the "new science" of that era. Furthermore, the book emphasizes the profound impact of the life sciences, chemistry, and medicine on fostering new forms of experimentation and instrument-making.

Chapter 1 provides an introduction to Santorio's life and career, highlighting his achievements and contributions to medicine. Chapter 2 delves into the historical context of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, emphasizing the emergence of corpuscularian ideas and the role of medical practitioners like Santorio in shaping the scientific landscape.

Chapters 3 and 4 explore Santorio's invention of scientific instruments, including his pioneering work in the field of thermometry. Chapter 3 discusses the development of thermometers and their significance in measuring temperature, while Chapter 4 highlights Santorio's contributions to the design and construction of precision medical devices.

Chapters 5 and 6 examine Santorio's contributions to clinical medicine and surgery. Chapter 5 discusses his pioneering work in the field of ophthalmology, including the invention of the ophthalmoscope and the development of new surgical techniques. Chapter 6 explores his contributions to the treatment of various medical conditions, such as epilepsy and hydrocephalus.

Chapters 7 and 8 focus on Santorio's legacy in the field of natural philosophy. Chapter 7 explores his philosophical ideas and their influence on the development of scientific thought, while Chapter 8 discusses his contributions to the field of physics, including his work on the principles of mechanics and hydrostatics.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Santorio Santori's life and works. It sheds light on his remarkable contributions to medicine, natural philosophy, and the development of scientific instruments. Through its detailed chapters, the book provides a deep understanding of Santorio's legacy and its impact on the history of science and medicine.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030795894
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022