History of Anatomy in China

Zusatztext

When the first foreign medical practitioners came to China, their attention was naturally riveted by the unusual and bizarre nature of Chinese medical theories and practice. Likewise, few foreigners were able to look beneath the surface of Chinese medicine. Urged as they were by their desire to send home accounts of what they had witnessed, they subconsciously depicted things in contrast to progress made in the West. The history of Chinese medicine which, up to the end of the nineteenth century, had been a mere hobby or alternative career of unsuccessful scholars and/or officials, has become the subject of universal interest. As one of the oldest branch of medicine, human anatomy is the basis of the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This short monograph spans over two millenniums of history of anatomy in China. By highlighting certain significant episodes in anatomical happenings, it attempts to depict its evolution from an empirical and philosophical concept to a scientifically-based discipline. The special role played by Western medical science is emphasized.

Autorenportrait

Louis Fu graduated MB, BS, from the University of Hong Kong in 1971. An orthopaedic surgeon by training, he has, early on in his professional career, been interested in the history of medicine, particularly the inter-change between Chinese and Western medicine. After his retirement he continues to be engaged in medical journalism.

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