A History of Ideas About the Prolongation of Life (Springer Series on the Origins of Geriatrics and Gerontology)

Text examines attitudes toward longevity and death in Islamic and Chinese societies as well as in Western civilizations. Provides an understanding of the origins of medicine, personal hygiene and public health, and the underlying psychological and social issues surrounding aging. Softcover. Contents......Page 8 Preface......Page 10 Foreword......Page 12 Acknowledgments......Page 14 I. Introduction......Page 16 II. Apologism......Page 24 III. Prolongevity Legends......Page 44 IV. Taoist Prolongevitism in Theory......Page 58 V. Taoist Prolongevitism in Practice......Page 75 VI. The Alchemists......Page 97 VII. The Hygienists......Page 131 VIII. The Philosophes......Page 144 IX. Epilogue......Page 172 Endnotes......Page 176 Bibliography......Page 214 A......Page 228 D......Page 229 F......Page 230 H......Page 231 M......Page 232 P......Page 233 S......Page 234 T......Page 235 Z......Page 236

Dr. Grumanís book examines the quest for longevity and immortality up to the year 1800. He presents multicultural perspectives and attitudes as depicted in Islamic and Chinese societies as well as in Western Civilization. This scholarly work contributes to our understanding of the origins of medicine, personal hygiene and public health as well as the underlying psychological and social determinants of longevity and humanityís longing for its attainment.

Examines the quest for longevity and immortality up to the year 1800. This book presents multicultural perspectives and attitudes as depicted in Islamic and Chinese societies as well as in Western Civilization. It aims to contribute to our understanding of the origins of medicine, personal hygiene, and public health. Explores attitudes towards longevity and death in Islamic, Chinese, and Western civilizations, covering such topics as medicine, public health, personal hygiene, and aging. The problem of death is a central part of the dilemma of modern man.