Giovanni Rajberti (1805–1861): An uncompromising physician and poet

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to describe the figure of the Italian uncompromising physician and poet Giovanni Rajberti (1805–1861), who was a strenuous opponent of non-scientific medical practices in Italy, including Animal Magnetism, Homeopathy and Hydropathy. In particular, he demonstrated the inconsistency of mesmerist practices in an exemplary yet less-known episode that involved the famous French writer Honoré de Balzac (1799–1850). Although his ideas hindered his career, Rajberti continued to criticize alternative practices, sustaining the value of true medicine and science against charlatans.