Gustav Jäger (naturalist)

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Gustav Jäger (June 23, 1832 – May 13, 1917) was a German naturalist and physician known for his contributions to biology and hygiene. He is particularly noted for his work on the theory of evolution and his advocacy of woolen clothing for health benefits.

Early Life and Education

Gustav Jäger was born in Burg, near Magdeburg, in the Kingdom of Prussia. He studied medicine and natural sciences at the University of Tübingen, where he earned his doctorate in 1858. His early work focused on zoology and botany, and he became a professor at the Stuttgart Polytechnic in 1868.

Contributions to Natural Science

Jäger was an early supporter of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. He published several works on the subject, including "Die Darwin'sche Theorie und ihre Stellung zu Moral und Religion" (The Darwinian Theory and its Position on Morality and Religion) in 1869. His research extended to various fields, including entomology, ornithology, and botany.

Hygienic Woolen Clothing

One of Jäger's most notable contributions was his advocacy for the use of woolen clothing for health purposes. He believed that wool had superior hygienic properties compared to other fabrics. In 1880, he published "Die Normalkleidung als Gesundheitsschutz" (Standard Clothing as Health Protection), where he argued that woolen garments could prevent the accumulation of bodily excretions and thus promote better health. This led to the establishment of the "Jäger clothing" brand, which became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Later Life and Legacy

Jäger continued his work in both natural sciences and hygiene until his death in 1917. His contributions to the understanding of evolution and the promotion of hygienic practices have left a lasting impact on both fields. He is remembered as a pioneer who bridged the gap between biology and public health.

Related Pages

• Charles Darwin
• Theory of evolution
• University of Tübingen
• Hygiene
• Wool