3. The Importance of Harvey's Discovery

About this Lecture

Lecture

In this module, we look at the importance of the Harvey's discovery. We start by looking at Galen's idea of an open-ended vascular system and how this was the prevailing belief about blood before Harvey. We then turn to look at how Harvey's discovery differed from Galen's. These theories not only differed on the circulation of the blood but also on the nature of the heart.

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.