Overthrowing the Ancients

Name: Overthrowing the Ancients
Brand: Michael Webster
Price: 42.75 AUD

Ibn al-Nafis

By: Michael Webster

Write A Review

Paperback | 4 December 2025

At a Glance

Paperback
174 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
21.6 x 14.0 x 1.02

Paperback

$42.75

or 4 interest-free payments of $10.69 with

Ships in 15 to 25 business days

In the tumultuous thirteenth century, as the Mongol threat reshaped the medieval world, one physician in Cairo dared to question a thousand years of established medical truth.

Ibn al-Nafis (1213-1288) was the Chief Physician of the greatest hospital of his age, but his true legacy lies in a revolutionary act of anatomical critique. Decades before the European Renaissance, al-Nafis used rigorous logic and observation to shatter the dogma of Galen, becoming the first person in history to accurately describe the pulmonary circulation-the path of blood through the lungs.

This comprehensive biography traces al-Nafis's extraordinary life: from his meticulous training in Damascus and his administrative reign in Mamluk Cairo, to his parallel career as a master jurist and radical philosopher. It delves into his extensive writings, including his philosophical novel, which championed pure, unassisted reason over blind imitation (taqlid).

Discover the mind of the man who risked his entire career to prove that reason, not tradition, is the only true guide to scientific discovery, securing his place as one of the most unjustly forgotten pioneers in the history of science. Approx.174 pages, 31600 word count

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $79.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.