Humorism
Humorism
Humorism (pronounced: hjuːˈmɔːrɪzəm), also known as humoralism or the theory of humors, is a now-discredited theory of the makeup and workings of the human body, posited by ancient Greek and Roman physicians and philosophers.
Etymology
The term "humorism" is derived from the Latin word "humor", which means "liquid". The theory of humorism was based on the belief that the human body was filled with four basic substances, known as the four humors, which are responsible for human health and behavior.
Theory
According to the theory of humorism, the human body is filled with four basic substances, known as the four humors: black bile, yellow bile, phlegm, and blood. Each humor corresponds to a different temperament and element. An imbalance in these humors is believed to lead to illness and disease.
History
Humorism was first posited by ancient Greek physicians, and was systematized and developed by medical theorists in the Islamic world. Among them were the influential philosopher-physicians Avicenna and Razi. Despite its decline in the modern era, humorism had a significant impact on health, diet, and medicine for over two thousand years.
Related Terms
- Four humors: The four basic substances believed to be in the human body according to humorism.
- Temperament: A term used in humorism to describe a person's character or personality as determined by the balance of the four humors.
- Avicenna: A Persian polymath and the most significant physician of the Islamic Golden Age, who made significant contributions to humorism.
- Razi: A Persian polymath, physician, and alchemist who made significant contributions to humorism.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Humorism
- Wikipedia's article - Humorism
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