Allgemeine Physiologie

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

78079

Title

Allgemeine Physiologie

Language

de

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A foundational 1909 text by Max Verworn, this comprehensive guide explores the history and principles of physiology. It traces the evolution of biological thought from ancient mythology to modern science, emphasizing the importance of experimental methods, cellular metabolism, and the systematic understanding of life processes.

Summary up to 500 words

Max Verworn's 'Allgemeine Physiologie' presents a rigorous historical and scientific examination of the study of life, tracing its evolution from naive ancient observations to systematic inquiry. The work begins by contextualizing early physiological concepts within mythology and philosophy, noting how primitive cultures personified natural forces and viewed movement as the defining characteristic of life. Verworn credits Aristotle with accumulating vast empirical data, despite some errors like spontaneous generation, and highlights Galen for establishing physiology as a prerequisite for practical medicine. Galen is particularly noted for his pioneering use of animal experimentation and for recognizing that a unified system of knowledge is essential, arguing that isolated observations lack value without integration. Verworn delves into cellular processes, distinguishing between simple histolytic processes (necrobiosis), where cells die and round up, and metamorphotic processes where metabolic pathways shift. He explains that fat accumulation often results from insufficient oxygen supply, preventing normal oxidation. This 'fatty metamorphosis' is detailed as occurring in heart muscle cells during chronic diseases or in milk secretion, where breast cells degenerate to release fat globules. The text also covers the unique slime secretion of sea cucumbers, where intercellular substance liquefies upon injury, and the chemical nature of amyloid substances, which Verworn identifies as glycoproteids related to mucinoids. Throughout, Verworn emphasizes the interconnected mechanisms of the living organism, advocating for the integration of anatomical knowledge and experimental evidence to understand these complex biological functions.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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Categories

• Psychology
• Science