John Birch (surgeon)

English surgeon and advocate of animal magnetism

John Birch (1745 – 3 February 1815) was an English surgeon and an early advocate of animal magnetism.

Early Life and Education

John Birch was born in 1745. Details about his early life and education are sparse, but he eventually pursued a career in medicine and surgery.

Career

Birch became a prominent surgeon in London, where he worked at St Thomas' Hospital. He was known for his skill and dedication to his patients. Birch was also a member of the Royal College of Surgeons.

Advocacy of Animal Magnetism

John Birch is perhaps best known for his advocacy of animal magnetism, a theory developed by Franz Mesmer. Animal magnetism, also known as mesmerism, posited that an invisible natural force possessed by all living things could have physical effects, including healing. Birch believed in the therapeutic potential of this force and incorporated it into his medical practice.

Controversy and Legacy

Birch's support for animal magnetism was controversial. Many of his contemporaries in the medical community were skeptical of mesmerism and dismissed it as pseudoscience. Despite this, Birch remained a steadfast advocate and continued to use it in his treatments.

John Birch passed away on 3 February 1815. His contributions to surgery and his controversial support of animal magnetism left a lasting impact on the medical field.

See Also

• Animal magnetism
• Franz Mesmer
• St Thomas' Hospital
• Royal College of Surgeons