[A good start for future reformation in rebus medicis". Georg Ernst Stahl's medical theory and piousness of the 18th century].

Abstract

Historical research has generally claimed a close connection between Georg Ernst STAHL'S (1659-1734) medical theory and 18th century Pietism. STAHL himself has been often presented as a religious Pietist and as a follower of August Hermann FRANCKE (1663-1727). The present paper analyses the relationship between STAHL'S theory and the medical concepts of Pietist physicians. It is shown that (1.) the assertion, that STAHL'S theory was essentially influenced by religious Pietism, cannot be proved, and that (2.) Pietist physicians adopted, but also simplified and distorted STAHL'S medical theory. Furthermore it is shown, that STAHL kept himself aloof from the Halle Pietists and their institutions.