Agostino Gemelli

Agostino Gemelli

Agostino Gemelli (1878–1959) was an Italian physician, psychologist, and Franciscan friar. He is best known for founding the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan, which is one of the largest Catholic universities in the world.

Early Life and Education

Agostino Gemelli was born on January 18, 1878, in Milan, Italy. He initially pursued a career in medicine, studying at the University of Pavia, where he graduated with a degree in medicine in 1902. During his time at university, he became interested in psychology and the works of Sigmund Freud.

Religious Conversion and Franciscan Order

In 1903, Gemelli experienced a profound religious conversion and decided to join the Franciscan Order. He took the name "Agostino" in honor of Saint Augustine. As a friar, he continued his studies in psychology and philosophy, eventually earning a doctorate in psychology.

Academic and Professional Career

Gemelli's academic career was marked by his efforts to integrate scientific research with Catholic teachings. In 1921, he founded the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan, which aimed to provide higher education grounded in Catholic values. He served as the university's first rector and played a significant role in its development.

Gemelli was also a prolific writer and researcher. He published numerous works on psychology, medicine, and philosophy. His research often focused on the relationship between the mind and body, and he was a pioneer in the field of psychosomatic medicine.

Contributions to Psychology and Medicine

Agostino Gemelli made significant contributions to the fields of psychology and medicine. He was a strong advocate for the scientific study of the human mind and its relationship to physical health. His work laid the foundation for modern psychosomatic medicine, which explores how psychological factors can affect physical health.

Legacy

Gemelli's legacy is most prominently seen in the continued success and influence of the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. The university remains a leading institution for higher education in Italy and continues to uphold the values and vision that Gemelli established.

Related Pages

• Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
• Franciscan Order
• Psychosomatic medicine
• Sigmund Freud
• Saint Augustine