William Bates (physician)

William Horatio Bates (December 23, 1860 – July 10, 1931) was an American ophthalmologist best known for his controversial Bates Method for improving eyesight. Bates claimed that vision problems could be corrected by strengthening the eyes through exercises and relaxation techniques, a theory that has been largely discredited by mainstream medicine.

Early Life and Education

William Bates was born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1860. He pursued his higher education at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, where he graduated with a medical degree in 1885. Following his graduation, Bates served as an intern at the New York Eye Infirmary, where he developed a keen interest in the treatment of vision problems.

Career

Throughout his career, Bates focused on researching the causes and treatments of refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. He was a regular contributor to medical journals, where he published his findings and theories.

In 1920, Bates published "The Cure of Imperfect Sight by Treatment Without Glasses," a book that outlined his methods for improving eyesight naturally. The Bates Method included exercises such as palming, visualization, and movement exercises. Bates believed that mental strain was the root cause of poor vision and that relaxation techniques could help reverse refractive errors.

Controversy and Legacy

Bates' theories were met with skepticism and criticism from the medical community. Many experts argued that his methods were unscientific and lacked empirical evidence. Despite the controversy, the Bates Method gained a following and continues to be practiced by some individuals today.

After his death in 1931, Bates' work was carried on by his followers, who continued to promote his vision improvement techniques. The Bates Method has been the subject of numerous books and training programs, although it remains outside the mainstream of ophthalmic practice.

Death

William Bates died on July 10, 1931, in New York City. His contributions to the field of ophthalmology, particularly his unconventional approach to treating vision problems, have made him a controversial figure in medical history.

See Also

• Ophthalmology
• Visual perception
• Refractive error