2. Harvey's Discovery

About this Lecture

Lecture

In this module, we look at Harvey's discovery in more detail. We start by debunking the myth that the christian churches did not allow dissections - in fact they often encouraged it. Despite being permitted, dissections during the Middle Ages were often devoid of purpose. Vesalius changed this and made dissections a crucial tool for medical research. We then turn to look at how the discovery of valves in the veins stimulated Harvey's research on blood circulation.

Course

In this course, Professor Andrew Gregory (UCL) explores the life of William Harvey and his discovery of the circulation of the blood. We will look at why Harvey's discovery is so important and why it was such a difficult discovery to make given the medical perceptions of the time.

Lecturer

Andrew Gregory is professor of the history and philosophy of science at University College, London. His research interests include ancient science, the relation of religion and science, and William Harvey. He has written widely on Harvey, including his book Harvey's Heart: The Discovery of Blood Circulation.