The Pursuit of Nature: Informal Essays on the History of Physiology

This 1977 book, written as part of the celebrations of the centenary of the Physiological Society, consists of essays on the historical development of physiology. Six esteemed authors each contribute a historical essay, focusing in turn on the history of electrophysiology, muscular and neuromuscular physiology, gastrointestinal hormones, perinatal physiology and visual research. Each of the six essays in this book is skilfully executed, idiosyncratic and a pleasure to read. They can be enjoyed in their own right, or as a rounded and informative collection on both the history of physiological practice and the scientists behind this movement's advance. The book will be of immense interest to physiologists, pharmacologists and historians of science, wishing to look back at the development of this fascinating discipline.