The Dark Side of Science [The Sad Story of Dr. Semmelweis]

Ignaz Semmelweis, a Hungarian doctor, discovered that handwashing with a chlorine solution drastically reduced maternal mortality rates caused by childbed fever. Despite his groundbreaking findings, he faced resistance from his peers, as the germ theory was not yet accepted. This rejection affected his mental health, leading to his institutionalization and death. His work eventually became standard practice, highlighting the challenges faced by pioneers in medicine and the slow acceptance of new scientific truths.

What challenges did Semmelweis face from the medical establishment regarding his ideas?

Reflect on the broader implications of Semmelweis's story for innovation in science and medicine.