Japanese Medical Book - Zentai Shinron
Japanese Medical Book - Zentai Shinron7/8/24 (updated 11/29/25)The Zentai Shinron is a Japanese medical book from the Edo period (1857) that played a significant role in the modernization of Japanese medicine. Authored by Benjamin Hobson (1816-1873), a British medical missionary and doctor who was active in East Asia, it helped bridge the gap between traditional Eastern medical practices and Western medical science. This made it an important work in bringing contemporary medical knowledge and practice into Japan, aiding the transition towards modern medicine in the country.The book was published in Kyoto by Katsumura Jiemon. The term "Zentai Shinron" itself refers to this specific historical work, distinct from the modern cultural meaning of "zentai" which relates to full-body skin-tight suits. The importance of the Zentai Shinron lies mainly in its contribution to medical science and education during a critical period of change in Japan.Source: Perplexity.aiCurated by Gabrielle Ly
