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Explain why there were improvements in medical knowledge in the years c1500–c1700 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 4
Explain why there were improvements in medical knowledge in the years c1500–c1700. You may use the following in your answer: • Thomas Sydenham • the printing press ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why there were improvements in medical knowledge in the years c1500–c1700 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why there were improvements in medical knowledge in the years c1500–c1700 related to Thomas Sydenham
Answer
Thomas Sydenham (1624–1689) made significant contributions to medical knowledge during the late 17th century. He is often referred to as the 'English Hippocrates' due to his systematic approach to diagnosis and classification of diseases. Sydenham emphasized the importance of careful observation and detailed case histories, which improved the understanding of clinical medicine.
His work highlighted the distinction between different diseases and their symptoms, leading to more accurate diagnoses. He believed that each disease had its own specific set of symptoms and should be treated accordingly, laying the groundwork for a more scientific approach to medicine.
Step 2
Explain why there were improvements in medical knowledge in the years c1500–c1700 related to the printing press
Answer
The introduction of the printing press in the 15th century, famously pioneered by Johannes Gutenberg, was a transformative technological advancement that greatly facilitated the dissemination of knowledge during the Renaissance period. By making books more accessible and affordable, the printing press allowed for a significant increase in the distribution of medical texts and treatises.
This accessibility enabled physicians and scholars to share their findings and build upon each other's work more effectively. Notably, texts such as Vesalius' 'De Humani Corporis Fabrica' and Harvey's 'Exercitatio Anatomica de Motu Cordis' were widely disseminated, contributing to a deeper understanding of human anatomy and physiology. The ability to circulate new medical knowledge rapidly was crucial in advancing medical education and practice.
Step 3
Use additional information to explain further improvements in medical knowledge
Answer
In addition to Sydenham's contributions and the role of the printing press, the scientific revolution also played a crucial role in advancements in medical knowledge between c1500 and c1700. Key figures like Andreas Vesalius and William Harvey challenged long-standing beliefs about human anatomy and physiology. Vesalius focused on meticulous dissection and observation, improving the accuracy of medical texts and shifting perspectives about anatomy.
Moreover, Harvey's demonstration of blood circulation fundamentally altered the understanding of the human body, paving the way for modern physiology. Collectively, these factors—observation, empirical evidence, and textual dissemination—led to significant improvements in medical knowledge during this period.