Hippocrates of Kos, 460 - 370 BC, the most important physician of classical antiquity,
the founder of scientific medicine was the offspring of an old family of physicians, who attributed their family tree to the healing god Asklepios. With Hippocratic medicine came the renunciation of religious-magical ideas and the application of a rational explanation of all processes concerning human health and illness. Diseases were no longer regarded as being sent from God, but as caused by explainable causes, e. g. environmental influences.
His theory of juice theory continued to operate in a slightly modified form into the 19th century.
The Hippocratic doctors saw their task in supporting the efforts to restore health (physis) in the human organism in case of illness. Precise observation of the patient's bedside and an individual approach to each patient's physical condition provided them with valuable assistance ("prognostikon"). Their therapeutic measures were essentially limited to dietary and naturopathic prescriptions. In surgery, bone surgery was performed in particular.
Among the Hippocratic writings is the text of an oath sworn by the gods Apollon, Asklepios, Hygieia and Panakeia. At the end of this oath, there are rules on the conduct of physicians which, with minor changes since ancient times, could be regarded as the ethical basis of the profession of doctor.
Reproduction of the statue of the larger-than-life statue, found on the island of Kos, near the Odeion ("concert house", roofed theatre building for musical performances).
Exhibit of the museum in Kos.
