Civilization: Is the West History? Season 1 Episode 5 Medicine

Civilization: Is the West History? season 1 episode 5, titled "Medicine", delves into the history of medicine and its evolution in the Western world. In this episode, the viewers are taken on a journey of discovery spanning over two thousand years, exploring how medicine was practiced in ancient Greece and Rome, through the Middle Ages, and into the modern era.

The episode starts by examining the roots of modern medicine in the ancient world. The Greeks believed that the body was governed by four humors, and so a balance of these humors was essential for good health. The Roman empire introduced many medical advances, including the first hospitals and the use of public health measures to prevent the spread of disease.

The episode then moves on to the Middle Ages when medicine took a more mystical approach. Physicians of the time believed that diseases were caused by supernatural forces and would often employ odd remedies. However, this period also saw the rise of medical schools and universities, where physicians received formal training to hone their skills.

With the dawn of the Renaissance, medicine once again evolved as physicians began to take a more scientific approach. The dissection of human cadavers was allowed, paving the way for advances in anatomy, and the microscope was invented, which enabled the observation of microorganisms for the first time.

The episode concludes with a focus on the modern era of medicine, where we see how advancements in technology and scientific knowledge have propelled medicine to new heights. The discovery of bacteria and viruses and the development of antibiotics revolutionized medicine, leading to the eradication of deadly diseases such as polio and smallpox.

Medicine has come a long way from the time of Hippocrates and Galen. This episode highlights the evolution of medicine as a discipline, and how it has played a significant role in shaping modern Western civilization.