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Ivan Pavlov A Russian Life in Science
Daniel P. Todes
Oxford University Press, 2014 ISBN: 978-0-19-992519-3 |
Weighing in at 731 pages (excluding an additional 122 pages of appendices, notes, bibliography and index) this is not a light read, figuratively or literally. Nevertheless, if your goal is to learn about one of the founding fathers of physiology, then you cannot go wrong here. Authoritative and comprehensive, this book covers Pavlov's life thoroughly, traversing the complex tapestry weaved by his personal and academic experiences, ultimately allowing the reader to understand his road to fame and cultural immortality. As an added bonus, we all get to know him in the context of a Tsarist Russia that suffers a civil war and brusquely transitions into communism, which makes this tale so much more illuminating. In the end, we get to know Pavlov so well, and at such a deep and personal level, that we genuinely grieve his death when we get to the last page, and this despite already knowing that he is a historical figure who passed away long ago.
Perhaps most readers will associate Pavlov's name with classical conditioning- do dogs salivating at the sound of a tone sound familiar? However, it should be pointed out (lest the reader anticipates a solely neurophysiological tale) that he became renowned, and a Nobel Prize winner, for his groundbreaking work on the digestive process. So expect to delve deep into this chapter of his scientific life. Regardless, for any fans of the history of science and biographies, you will not be disappointed. Simply give yourself ample time, kick back and enjoy.
