John Pickstone

British historian of science, technology, and medicine

John V. Pickstone

John V. Pickstone (29 May 1944 – 12 February 2014) was a prominent British historian of science, technology, and medicine. He was known for his influential work in the field of the history of science and for his role in developing the Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine (CHSTM) at the University of Manchester.

Early life and education

John Pickstone was born in Burnley, Lancashire, England. He attended local schools before pursuing higher education at University College London, where he studied physiology. He later completed a PhD in the history of science at the University of Leeds, focusing on the history of physiology and medicine.

Academic career

Pickstone began his academic career at the University of Manchester in 1974, where he played a crucial role in establishing the Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine (CHSTM). Under his leadership, CHSTM became one of the leading institutions for the study of the history of science in the UK.

His research interests were broad, encompassing the history of medicine, the history of science, and the history of technology. He was particularly interested in the ways in which scientific knowledge and practices have been shaped by social and cultural contexts.

Contributions to the history of science

Pickstone's work often focused on the concept of "ways of knowing," which he used to explore how different scientific disciplines have developed over time. He argued that scientific knowledge is not just a collection of facts but is deeply intertwined with the cultural and social environments in which it is produced.

He published extensively on the history of medicine, including works on the development of hospitals and medical practices in the 19th and 20th centuries. His book "Ways of Knowing: A New History of Science, Technology, and Medicine" is considered a seminal work in the field.

Legacy and influence

John Pickstone's influence extended beyond his own research. He was a mentor to many students and scholars in the field of the history of science, and his work has inspired a generation of historians to explore the social dimensions of scientific knowledge.

He was also involved in public engagement with science, contributing to discussions on the role of science in society and the importance of understanding the historical context of scientific developments.

Personal life

Pickstone was known for his passion for history and his commitment to education. He was married and had two children. He passed away on 12 February 2014, leaving behind a significant legacy in the field of the history of science.

Related pages

• History of science
• History of medicine
• University of Manchester
• Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine