Breathing - An Inspired History

"Our knowledge of breathing has shaped our social history and philosophical beliefs since prehistory. Breathing occupied a spiritual status for the ancients, while today it is central to the practice of many forms of meditation, like Yoga. Over time physicians, scientists, and engineers have pieced together the intricate biological mechanisms of breathing to devise ever more sophisticated devices to support and maintain breathing indefinitely, from iron lungs to the modern ventilator. Breathing supplementary oxygen has allowed us to conquer Everest, travel to the Moon, and dive to ever greater ocean depths. We all expect to breathe fresh and clean air, but with an increase in air pollution that expectation is no longer being met. Today, respiratory viruses like COVID-19 are causing disasters both human and economical on a global scale. This is the story of breathing--a tale relevant to everyone."--Provided by publisher.

About the author

Edgar Williams was Professor of Cardiopulmonary Science at the University of South Wales, conducting research in respiratory and cardiovascular physiology. He was the author of Moon: Nature and Culture (2014) in Reaktion’s Earth series.

Summary

The story of breathing; a tale relevant to everyone.

Product details

• Authors: Edgar Williams, Williams Edgar
• Publisher: Reaktion Books
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Released: 31.05.2021
• EAN: 9781789143621
• ISBN: 978-1-78914-362-1
• No. of pages: 256
• Dimensions: 144 mm x 241 mm x 25 mm
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > History; Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Medicine; HEALTH & FITNESS / General, HISTORY / General, Social & cultural history, Social and cultural history, HEALTH & FITNESS / Exercise / Aerobics