Robert Koch: A Life in Medicine and Bacteriology

by Thomas D. Brock

Robert Koch may be considered the founder of medical bacteriology, and he was the driving force in the development of microbiology. Koch discovered the causes of tuberculosis and cholera and played a major role in the development of hygiene and public health. The techniques he developed, have served as major tools of research in the whole field of medicine. Koch's associates and followers, using his techniques, discovered the whole array of bacteria that were the major scourges of humans. These discoveries led directly to the development of vaccines and other immunological procedures, and (ultimately) to the discovery of antibiotics. Koch's major contributions were recognized by the award of the Nobel Prize in 1905.

Genres: History, Medicine, Science, Biography

364 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1988

Reviews

[Richard]

Good, solid biography, generally avoids jargon, tells the story of the man who basically invented bacterial medicine. Koch, who tends to be overshadowed by his rival Pasteur, was a more important force in modern medicine, and behind his stern, Teutonic appearance, a warmer and more interesting character.

[Mark]

An excellent well-organized concise biography. The author is frank about Koch's personality and certain episodes in his life that reflect poorly on him. This is a balanced non-hagiographic biography of the man who helped start the sciences of bacteriology and public health.