Looking for a book to read this semester that is related to medicine but not a heavy textbook? Here Dr Ria Sinha reviews four engaging and informative books in the history of medicine theme that will give you multiple insights into the development of medicine and medical understanding. The selection offers a blend of historical depth, enthralling narratives, and thought-provoking theories, perfect for expanding your perspective beyond lectures and clinical practice. Whether you’re intrigued by the dramatic stories of medical pioneers, major disease outbreaks, ethical dilemmas of past and present, or the importance of art in documenting and understanding disease, these books promise to enrich your appreciation of medicine’s rich history. Dive right in and discover how the past continues to shape the medical world today!
If you have any comments, recommendations or reviews of your own, please drop an email to Dr Ria Sinha, riasinha@hku.hk
Books:
“The Greatest Benefit to Mankind” by Roy Porter. 1997.
Roy Porter’s “The Greatest Benefit to Mankind” is an expansive exploration of the history of medicine from ancient times to the modern era. The book delves into the evolution of medical practices, highlighting how societal, cultural, and scientific factors have shaped healthcare, and examines key milestones such as the development of hospitals, the rise of surgery, and the impact of medical ethics. An engaging narrative style makes complex historical analyses accessible, blending scholarly research with vivid storytelling. Porter also navigates the intersection of medicine with politics and religion, offering a comprehensive view of how medicine has influenced—and been influenced by—human history. This book is an invaluable resource for medical students, providing insights into the production and progression of medical knowledge and its significance in society. Exploring this rich history, can help students appreciate the legacy and responsibilities they inherit as future healthcare professionals.
“The Sick Rose” by Richard Barnett. 2014.
“The Sick Rose” is an alluring journey into the history of medical illustration. Through a collection of stunningly gruesome images, author Richard Barnett explores how disease and the human body have been depicted over centuries and sheds light on the evolution of medical knowledge and the artistic techniques used to document it. Barnett combines these illustrations with insightful commentary, placing each image in its historical and scientific context. The volume also highlights the role of the visual in medical education and its impact on public perceptions of and reactions to disease. Readers will find “The Sick Rose” not only a feast for the eyes but also a thought-provoking look at how art, science and medicine intersect. This book encourages students to reflect on the ways medical imagery has shaped our understanding of health and illness, making it a compelling addition to the study of medical history.
“Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande. 2014.
“Being Mortal” is a profound exploration of end-of-life care and the global challenges faced by aging populations. Atul Gawande, a surgeon, combines personal anecdotes with well-researched insights to discuss the current limitations of modern medicine in addressing mortality. He critiques the focus on prolonging life at the expense of quality of life, advocating for a more humane approach to aging and dying. Instead, the book emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care, where individuals’ values and desires are prioritized. Gawande’s writing is both compassionate and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to consider what truly matters in life’s final stages. For medical students, “Being Mortal” offers valuable foundational lessons on empathy, communication, and the ethical complexities of healthcare. It also challenges future healthcare providers to rethink how they can support patients and families through the most difficult life transitions, making it an essential read for those entering the medical field.
“Sense of Humours” by Luca Borghi. 2022 (updated version).
Luca Borghi’s “Sense of Humours” delves into the historical concept of the four humours, which dominated medical theory for centuries. The narrative traces the origins of this theory in ancient Greece and its influence on medical practice through the Middle Ages and examines how the balance of blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile was believed to affect health and temperament. Borghi provides a detailed analysis of how humoural theory shaped medical treatments and sociocultural attitudes towards illness. This exploration is richly illustrated with historical texts and artworks, giving a deeper understanding of how medical understanding and practice has evolved. Overall, “Sense of Humours” offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of medical thought and its lasting impact on modern medicine. Students will appreciate the progress made in medical science and the enduring importance of holistic approaches to health.