iatrophysical school of thought

a 17th-century school of thought that sought to apply the principles of mathematics and mechanics to medicine. Early examples include the development of the thermometer as an instrument of medical diagnosis and the invention of other mechanical and measurement devices to impart knowledge of physiological processes. This concept, at least in its early development, was based on the Cartesian view that the physical body is essentially a machine (see Cartesian dualism). Many early proponents of this school also practiced iatrochemistry (see iatrochemical school of thought). Also called iatromathematics; iatromechanism.

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Psychology term of the day

December 29th 2024

dancing mouse

a strain of mice displaying behavior that resembles dancing. Mice of this strain have a genetic defect that causes degeneration of the hair cells of the inner ear. This degeneration produces deafness and impaired functioning of the vestibular system of the ear, which is thought to cause the dancelike behavior.