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Ernst von FeuchterslebenAustrian scientist, surgeon, psychiatrist, writer, poet, philosopher
Date of Birth: 29.04.1806
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Biography of Ernst von Feuchtersleben
Baron Ernst Maria Johann Karl Freiherr von Feuchtersleben was an Austrian scholar, surgeon, psychiatrist, writer, poet, and philosopher. He was born in Vienna, Austria in 1806. Ernst displayed a keen interest in natural sciences at a young age and was also talented in poetry. He pursued his education at the University of Vienna's medical faculty and obtained his medical degree in 1834. He settled in Vienna and began working as a practicing surgeon while maintaining a connection with his alma mater.
In 1834, Feuchtersleben got married, and in the same year, he published several of his poems, one of which, 'Es ist bestimmt in Gottes Rat', later became a popular German song. From 1844 onwards, Feuchtersleben lectured on psychiatry at the University of Vienna. He briefly served as an assistant to the Minister of Public Education in Austria in 1848. As a physician, philosopher, and poet, Feuchtersleben became well-known and was part of Vienna's intellectual circles. He had friendships with renowned Austrian poets Franz Grillparzer and Heinrich Laube.
Feuchtersleben's interests spanned various fields, including psychology, human character, and social relationships. He is credited with introducing the term 'psychosis,' although he did not claim its invention, stating that similar terms were already in use. Another contribution of Feuchtersleben to psychiatry was his clear concept of the mentally ill personality. According to him, mental disorders, both neurosis and psychosis, affected the entire personality. This concept later became part of the emerging field of psychotherapy.
Most of Feuchtersleben's works were written in German, although he also produced early works in Latin. His most significant scientific work, "Lehrbuch der ärztlichen Seelenkunde," focused on medical psychology and was published in 1845. However, it was his collection of talented and original essays titled "Zur Diätetik der Seele" (Dietetics of the Soul) that brought him the most fame. These essays, filled with deep reflection and keen observation, offered wisdom on life and underwent numerous reprints. Feuchtersleben's aphorisms, such as "The secret to prolonging life is not to shorten it," and "The strength of virtue lies in its modesty," have been translated into many languages and remain relevant today.
Baron Ernst von Feuchtersleben passed away in Vienna on September 3, 1849, just one year after his resignation as the assistant to the Minister. It is known that he attempted to implement reforms in the field but became discouraged by the difficulties he faced, leading to his resignation.